A popular sandwich shop in Bury St Edmunds has closed its doors after trading in the town for more than 20 years.

East Anglian Daily Times: The sign on the door of Toppers Picture: MICHAEL STEWARDThe sign on the door of Toppers Picture: MICHAEL STEWARD (Image: Archant)

Toppers, which is based at the Butter Market in the town centre, confirmed its closure with a sign in the shop window, dated December 10.

The sign read: “Regretfully, we have decided to close our shop. Thank you for your custom over the past 20 years.”

Loyal customers immediately took to social media to express their disappointment.

Mark Cordell, chief executive of Our Bury St Edmunds Business Improvement District, said the closure came as a “complete surprise”.

“For Bury, it’s very unusual for an independent business to cease trading, as more recently it has been the closure of national brands which has affected the town,” he said.

“It’s very sad, but a reality check that high rents, high business rates, and car parking facilities are all having a negative effect on our town.

“The BID will continue to lobby both locally and nationally on these issues on behalf of our businesses.”

The company has been approached for comment.