A POPULAR Dumbarton coffee shop has announced it is to close after being in business for 43 years.

The Gossip Shop on High Street was opened by Mary Baker on May 28, 1979, serving a range of hot drinks and home baking over the years.

Mary's daughters Karen and Marie-Jo took over the running of the shop in 1996, however the family has now decided to hang up their aprons.

In a social media post, they said: “On Saturday, March 25 we will be closing our doors for the last time.

“We'd like to thank all our wonderful customers, Saturday 'girls' and family for all your support throughout our 43 years.”

Glasgow Times: Karen, Winnifred, Mary and Marie-Jo celebrate the opening of The Gossip Shop in 1979 (left) and (right) Mary celebrates their 40th birthday with their first customer from 1979 Janet HughesKaren, Winnifred, Mary and Marie-Jo celebrate the opening of The Gossip Shop in 1979 (left) and (right) Mary celebrates their 40th birthday with their first customer from 1979 Janet Hughes (Image: The Gossip Shop)

Many customers took to the comments to share their happy memories of the shop.

One user said: “Thank you for giving me a lovely venue with fantastic food, amazing coffee and a welcoming smile for all of these years! So much more to miss than just the coffee. Take care, cake ladies."

Another added: “Many, many happy memories of The Gossip Shop, enjoy your retirement ladies - very well deserved.”