A HADDINGTON kilt shop which served its customers for nearly two decades has closed its doors due to “circumstances beyond its control”.

Tyneside Tartans has been a central part of the town centre since it first opened 16 years ago.

The shop was run by Neill Brotherston, who stepped aside in 2013, and was taken over by his wife Mhari.

Neill, 50, told the Courier it was “a sad day” that the shop was closing – but decelined to elaborate on the reasons behind the move.

He said: “We’ve met some wonderful people and customers and if it re-opens as a kilt shop I hope it continues to be supported. We have had a lot of support over the years but it just got the point where we were unable to continue.

“We have had some really good times – you don’t keep a business going for so many years without being successful.

“We have been inundated with customers coming onto our Facebook page and being really sympathetic to the fact we have had to close.” The shop closed at New Year, with plans to re-open on January 5.

But Mhari posted on the company’s Facebook page that day: “This is not an easy status to post. Due to circumstances beyond our control, Tyneside Tartans has had to cease trading with immediate effect.

“This has come as a huge shock today not only for us but for our family and friends. People who know us know that since I have taken over, I have put 110 per cent into rebuilding the existing business built by Neill 16 years ago.

“There have been laughs, tears and new friendships found since taking over the reigns.

“As you can imagine, we are both devastated.” Customers down the years include Hollywood director Joe Carnahan, best known for the 2010 version of The A-Team, Smokin’ Aces and The Grey, who was married at nearby Lennoxlove House.

Tyneside Tartans, which stocked a range of kilts and accessories such as sporrans, was originally based on Market Street before moving to Court Street, in premises now occupied by Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland.

It then moved to Hardgate in 2007, where it was located until it closed.

Ward councillor John McMillan, the local authority’s spokesman for economic development, felt it was a blow for the town.

He said: “I think it is just sad that something that so many folk use has had to close. There will be a lot of people who used it.

“I remember back to Masons shutting last year and it is a similar feeling with jobs lost, service lost and it is mixed with the good news that the George Hotel is moving forward.” Joe Forte, of Joe Forte Sports, told the Courier it was “a shame” to see the shop closing after nearly two decades.

He said: “Any shop that closes in Haddington is disappointing for all the traders. You are wanting to have as vibrant and as strong a community as you possibly can.”