Thrive Farms has announced the closure of its Ramsey shop, with last Saturday marking its final day business.

The firm’s owners say the decision comes after a particularly challenging ‘growing’ season that has significantly set back their crop production.

In an online statement issued earlier this week, the business spoke of its regret over the closure, citing the unsustainable nature of keeping the physical store open amid its current agricultural difficulties.

The statement read: 'This decision comes after a challenging growing season, which has left our crops significantly behind schedule.

‘Unfortunately, this setback has made it unsustainable for us to continue running a physical store with its associated overheads at this time.'

Thrive Farms is a cooperative farming business with around 100 members who all co-own the farms.

As part of its mission statement, the farms say they aim to put food security 'back into the hands of the Manx public and guide the Isle of Man to self sustainability'.

The firm’s shop, located at Bourne Place in Ramsey, had become a firm part of the Ramsey community since opening five months ago and was renowned for selling fresh, locally grown produce.

Despite the closure, the company emphasised its commitment to overcoming the current agricultural challenges and return to the market stronger.

They assured customers that this closure would allow them to develop a more robust plan for the future.

'While this is a difficult step for us, it allows us to focus on developing a stronger plan for the future of Thrive Farms,' the statement continued.

The business also expressed sincere gratitude for the community's continued support and understanding following news of the shop’s closure.

Following the announcement, some members of the Manx community expressed their disappointment over the closure.

One said: ‘What a shame, I loved popping in and looking around but I’m confident you’ll be back.’

The Manx Oat Company, another local business, said it was ‘sorry to hear the news’ and added that ‘it’ll come right in the end with your hard work and determination’. Thrive Farms plans to keep their customers and members of the community updated on future plans.