A WELLINGTON store dedicated to reducing the use of single use plastics has announced that it will be closing its doors.

The Blue Pantry, based in Fore Street, describes itself on its Facebook page as a "local packaging free grocery shop based on 'Zero Waste' principles."

Customers are encouraged to bring their own containers and ditch single use plastics, which have a detrimental impact on wildlife.

Gary and Kate Todd, who opened the store in September 2018, have made the difficult decision not to renew the lease on the shop.

The Blue Pantry has thanked its "valued and varied customers" who have shown their support throughout the years.

Posting on social media, spokesperson from The Blue Pantry said: "To all our valued and varied customers.

"As you may know, The Blue Pantry has been proud to be part of Wellington High Street for nearly six years. We have had ups and downs aplenty, but through it all we have had amazing, loyal customers who have supported us throughout.

"It is with sadness therefore, that we are sharing the news that we will not be renewing our lease for a further period and The Blue Pantry will be closing its doors in the coming weeks.

"This has been a difficult decision but we are excited for new opportunities and challenges to come.

"Thank you to everyone who believed in us; to friends and family, without whom we would never have opened!

"To customers who stood in the rain waiting for Gary to serve them flour and toilet roll during COVID; those who survived a drenching from the milk machine or the dreaded sound of a dispenser missing the container beneath!

"Those who remember the days of chalk pens, a calculator and terrified tellers performing maths under pressure! To our wonderful local suppliers and staff past and present who have made all the difference. Thank you all.

"And a final word of hope - your purchases of SESI cleaning products alone has saved an amazing 30735 single use packages. Thank you for being part of something we are so proud to have been involved in."