Ormskirk's lost its police station, magistrates court, many independent shops and now there's another nail in the coffin for traders at the town's market hall which is closing at the end of this month.

Here's how the news was announced to tenants on Wednesday:

'Dear tenants,

It is with a heavy heart that I write this letter.After many years of financially supporting the operation of the market, I’m afraid that this cannot carry on.

The situation is costing our company thousands of pounds each month and we unfortunately have no choice but to put a stop to these losses, we simply cannot afford them any longer.

We shall close the Market for good at 5:00pm on 29^th March 2019. I wish you every success in your future.

Yours sincerely,

McComb Property'

A good market hall should be the 'jewel in the crown' of any market town but that's not been the case over the last few years as it - and the town's market - have suffered in the economic downturn.

One sliver of good news is that McComb's are NOT planning for the Moorgate building to be turned into student accommodation but is seeking an alternative retail use for it and the adjoining nightclub, the former Pavilion cinema.

One trader who's recently bought the market café said he's been investing money to improve the business; it remains to be seen how Norman the fishmonger reacts to the news although we can only imagine he will be 'gutted' at the closure...