Staff were overwhelmed as customers and wellwishers left cards, gifts and messages of support as Coopers stores in Beccles, Bungay, Halesworth, Leiston, Framlingham and Harleston prepared to shut.

The 45-strong workforce across the six stores - who learnt of the shock closures on Wednesday (October 15) - will get their redundancy packages and outstanding wages, bosses confirmed.

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Coopers hardware chain commercial director Stuart Ruskin(Image: Sarah Chambers)

The chain hit the buffers after conditions on the high street became too tough.

Commercial director Stuart Ruskin visited staff to say goodbyes at all six outlets today.

"It has been heart-breaking to do. We have been round and seen everyone," he said.

Last October's Budget was among the factors behind the business's demise, he explained.

Rises in employers' National Insurance and the minimum wage - along with increases in rates, gas and other utility bills - had a "massive effect", he added.

Coopers hardware store in Beccles after it closed for the final time on Saturday, October 18(Image: Sarah Chambers)

"That's why the high street looks like it does," he said.

The stores were due to open until 3pm today (Saturday, October 18), but in the end with sale stock already sold, the decision was taken not to reopen after Friday.

Staff - many long-servers and some tearful - spoke of their deep sense of family and community and the good times as well as their sadness, shock and upset at the chain's demise.

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