Cumbrian ice cream firm Hartleys has closed after 94 years in business.
Started by Grayson Hartley in 1931 in Egremont, who sold ice cream from a motorbike and sidecar, the firm soon expanded and had dozens of ice cream vans and a cafe at St Bees.
Current owners Mark Richardson – whose dad Les took over the firm in 1983 – and his wife Shirley, said rising costs and unseasonal weather over the last three years had led to the decision to close the business.
In a statement on Facebook they said: “It is with great sadness and very heavy hearts that we announce that Hartleys Ice Cream Ltd ceased trading on December 30.
“This has been a very difficult decision but with the nature of the business needing good weather during the summer to see us through the winter and the past three summers being very unseasonal, rising costs across the whole business including energy, supplier costs etc we feel it is in the best interest of the company at this time.
“We want to thank every single customer that has supported us not matter how big or small, it has meant the world to us.
“If anyone has any unused gift vouchers that are still in date please get in touch and we will sort these for you.
“We appreciate the kind words and support that we have received. It means more than you will ever know.”
