A leading boutique mother and baby brand is closing its store in Colchester permanently, following a "lack of footfall" and the knock-on effects of Covid closures.

Jojo Maman Bébé has confirmed it will be closing its outlet in Colchester's Sir Isaac's Walk on Christmas Eve, after making the hard decision not to renew the lease.

Laura Tenison, founder and managing director of the boutique, said she is "so sad" to be closing the Colchester store.

"Regretfully the occupation costs, lack of footfall in that street and the knock-on effects of Covid-19 closures have added up to us having to make the difficult decision not to renew the lease," she said.

"We have 93 stores across the country and are doing everything possible to protect the jobs and keep our stores trading.

"However, on this occasion we are devastated that entering into a new lease is just not a viable option at this time."

She also thanked customers and the store's team for their loyalty over the years and said she hopes to be back with a new store in Colchester some time in the future.

"We remain fully committed to our high street presence as the UK’s leading specialist parent and baby brand," she added.

The nearest stores will now be at Bury St Edmunds, Chelmsford, Bishop's Stortford and Norwich.