A POPULAR West Cumbria butchers has dispelled rumours of store closures, following 'absolutely untrue' rumours circulating that their Whitehaven store will be closing down.

The popular butchers has been operating in West Cumbria for almost 150 years, with stores in Workington and Whitehaven.

Over the weekend, Haigh's directly addressed rumours that their Whitehaven store on King Street in the town would be closing down.

The company said although they have experienced staff shortages since the end of 2022, they are 'excited' at new opportunities brought by recent recruitment in the company.

In a statement on social media, Haigh's said: "We have been made aware recently of rumours circulating on Facebook and elsewhere that our Whitehaven shop is closing down.

"This is absolutely untrue.

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"We have been experiencing staff shortages since the end of last year, like nearly every other business, but new people have joined us in the last couple of weeks with more starting on Monday. We're excited at the new opportunities that will bring us.

"We've been around in West Cumbria for nearly 150 years and there's no reason we shouldn't be here for another 150, customers permitting.

"Thank you to our loyal customers for your continuing support.

"We do not intend to say anything else on the matter."