A group of corner shops is set to close down after falling into liquidation.

Foreways, a group of mini-supermarkets trading as part of symbol group Premier, is to close all five of its locations in Carlisle, Cumbria.

The group had operated for nearly 40 years under the Premier name, but remained independently owned.

Owner Billy Bone confirmed that Armstrong Watson had been appointed as administrators.

A former employee said the stores would be ‘sorely missed’ by the community.

Residents in the affected area said they were ‘gutted’ at the announcement, with many praising the owners and staff.

One wrote on Facebook: ‘Sorry to hear all the Foreways are closing.

‘During the floods of 2005, we remember going round to the Bedford Road shop and getting some supplies to keep us going.

‘There was no electric and we were scrambling about in the gloom grabbing beans and bottles of pop.’

Another said: ‘With all the shops and businesses closing, the city will be totally devoid soon. Unless you want your hair cut or your vape topping up.’

Some 4,000 stores operate under the Premier banner nationwide, the majority of which are independently owned.

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