Next month will mark the end of an era as a popular pet stall in Longton is set to close its shutters for the final time. 

Sheila's Pet Stall, based inside Longton Indoor Market, has been running for almost 50 years, selling a whole range of supplies for dogs, cats and even birds. 

The business was opened by Sheila in 1977 and when she retired six years ago, her daughter-in-law, Rachael Parrish took over. 

But the popular stall will close on Saturday 16 September after 46 years of successful trade.

The popular stall is currently having a closing down sale with many items reduced to clear (Nub News).

Rachael told Stoke Nub News: "It's just a case of I want to go and do what I want now, I've been in retail for 23 years so it's time for a change.

"I'm starting my own pet services business which will be offering dog walking, cat sitting and a pet taxi - it's something that I've wanted to do for ages.

"Trading in Longton Market has been great, I've built up a good regular customer base here so it is quite sad to be going but everyone, including Sheila, has been really supportive of my decision."

Longton Market was established in 1789 and hosts a range of independent retailers (Nub News).

Rachael's new business, Hollies Happy Houndz, is inspired by her own pet springer spaniel, Hollie, and Rachael has just completed a pet first aid course to prepare her for the new adventure. 

Sheila's Pet Stall is currently having a closing down sale with many items reduced to clear. 

Longton Indoor Market is open Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays 9am-5pm. 

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READ MORE: New homes in Meir to be offered at a discounted rate to first-time buyers 

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