A PORTISHEAD flower shop that has been trading for 38 years will close its doors for the last time on Saturday.

Steve Fowler who runs Fowlers Florists at 43 High Street has wanted to retire, following ill health, since 2010 but planning wrangles have delayed the sale of his property.

The 64-year-old said: “I have loved being a part of the Portishead community and would like to thank all my customers for their support over the years. I will miss the people but not so much the work; I am looking forward to more gardening time.”

The shop, which also has a walled garden, has over the years served teas and sold gifts in addition to plants and flowers.

Steve added: “I hope people will pop in to say goodbye throughout this week, although we will be around for a couple of days next week, selling off our fixtures and fittings.”

Permission has been given to change the use of the shop and after a major refurbishment it will re-open as an estate agency.