A popular shoe shop which has served the High Street for generations has announced its sudden closure.

Clarks was situated next to the Merchant's House on Marlborough's High Street and closed its doors permanently on Monday, April 22.

The shoe shop has served Marlborough locals for 35 years, and the unexpected announcement comes just over one month after the Devizes store also closed down.

Speaking about the closure, a spokesperson for the store said: "It is with great sadness that after 35 years we will be closing our doors one final time on Monday, April 22, 2024.

"We would like to thank you all for your loyal custom over the years."

However, the exact reasons for the closure remain unclear.

The loss of Clarks on the High Street will be felt hugely by many locals, who claim that the shoe shop has been a 'lifeline' and an 'institution'.

Swindon Advertiser: Many parents fondly remember taking their children to get their first shoes at Clarks.Many parents fondly remember taking their children to get their first shoes at Clarks. (Image: Newsquest)

"Clark’s saved my husband's bacon on our wedding day when he left his wedding shoes in London and only had his trainers, thank goodness you were open," shared one local on social media.

"So sad, I remember getting my daughter's feet measured for her first shoes there, over 30 years ago now," added another.

From Monday, April 22, Marlborough will now have no dedicated shoe shop in the town, and the loss will certainly leave a huge hole in the High Street.