A UNIQUE gift shop is shutting down after 33 years of trading in Bournemouth town centre.

Enigma, in Old Christchurch Road, sells a wide range of jewellery, incense, crystals and clothing.

But it is now closing, blaming the decline of the high street, high rents and expensive overheads.

In a Facebook post to customers, a spokesman said: "Sadly we need to announce that Enigma is closing. We have been trading for 33years and are grateful we have been in business so long.

"We have seen so many changes in Bournemouth over this period of time and especially the decline of the high street .The high rents and overheads are just too much.

"Most of our customers have become friends and we have shared very special moments in Enigma. With the turn of events re coronavirus the closure came earlier than anyone expected."

The spokesman said they hope to move the business online in the future and added: "We hope everyone is safe in this lockdown period. A great time of reflection for all of us.

"This all seems very surreal at the moment and I know many of you will be sad to see the shop go, but we will endeavour to keep you supplied with your favourites. I have many ideas for the future so please bear with us."

News of the closure was greeted with sadness by customers who commented on the shop's Facebook page.

One said: "This is so sad. I have loved your shop for so many years - it's part of my history. My friend and I always buy each other our gifts there - she travels down to Bournemouth especially. You will be so missed."

Another said: "Heartbreaking to read this. Have been shopping here since 1990. Still got and wear so many pieces I’ve collected over the years. Such an incredibly sad loss to the community. Wishing you and all your staff all the best for your future endeavours."

And a third added: "You will be missed. Have bought lots of fabulous pieces from you and love your shop. The high street where you are has declined and with the coronavirus as well, must be so hard."