Customers of a butcher’s shop in Devizes, which unexpectedly closed last week, have taken to social media to express their dismay.

Country Butchers, in Little Brittox, was opened by Daniel Curtis in April 2011 and became known for its cheeky signs outside, offering such things as succulent breasts and tender rumps.

But the shop closed last Friday, Mr Curtis putting up a sign on the door just saying, ‘Goodbye Devizes.’

Mr Curtis, 33, bought the established butcher’s shop, run by Mike Howarth, after working for the town’s other butchers, Walter Rose and Son in Sidmouth Street.

Staff threw themselves into town events, including the Food and Drink Festival.

One Facebook message, by Llinos Griffiths, read: “Thanks for all the lovely products you sold. I’ll never forget the chicken. Thanks for advice on perfect crackling.”