An off-licence which has been in the city for decades has been repossessed.

Higgins in Western Road, Hove, was served with a forfeiture notice on October 13 by bailiffs.

The notice is served following a breach by the tenant and also means the lease is terminated.

The most common reason for a forfeiture notice is non-payment of rent, although the reason in this case has not been confirmed yet.

One shopper who lives in the area said: “We are absolutely gutted to see the business close down. It's been a staple for as long as we can remember and it's always sad to see any business close."

Parkinson Bailiff Services said it was acting for client Graves Son and Pilcher which was approached for comment.

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The notice said that any attempt by the business to enter the “demised premises will result in criminal/civil proceedings being taken” against them.

Jilly Stevens, councillor for Brunswick and Adelaide, said: “It is always sad to see shops closing in the neighbourhood.

“Times are hard, particularly for independent and small businesses, who have had to recover from the effect of Covid and are now being hit by the cost of living crisis just as residents are.”

Higgins of Hove was approached for comment.