Sidmouth butcher Stewart Hayman told this week of his sadness at calling time on the family business that has served the people of the town through four generations.

Stewart, who is 70, told the Herald that working at Hayman's Butchers “had been my life”.

He added: “I started from school, working alongside my father and my grandfather.

“It is quite a sad time. It has been a difficult decision because we have traded from this place for a long time - for four generations - and I have always enjoyed what I do. I love coming to work.”

Sidmouth Herald: Stewart and Shirley Hayman with son Mark and grandson James outside their shopStewart and Shirley Hayman with son Mark and grandson James outside their shop (Image: Archant)

Goodwill messages flooded in after news emerged that Hayman’s Butchers would cease trading on May 29.

Town council chairman Ian Barlow said: “It is always sad when a shop closes, but especially so when it is a shop that is long established and with the history behind it that Hayman’s has.”

Well-wishers took to social media to pay tribute to the business, which has been in Church Street since 1907 when it was opened by John James Hayman.

One posted: “Sad to see that after nearly 115 years in the town, Hayman's has announced that it intends to close its doors for the very last time at the end of May.”

Others said: “Such a shame - all the lovely pastries, pies and fresh meat. No butchers in Sidmouth. Very sad. It’s a shame to see a traditional butcher shop close. The only time you miss it is when it is gone.

“So sad to see another traditional, local shop go. Such a first-class butchers.”

Sidmouth Herald: Hayman's Butchers will be shutting shop for the last time on May 29Hayman's Butchers will be shutting shop for the last time on May 29 (Image: Archant)

Others wished Stewart and his wife Shirley a happy retirement.

Stewart took over the running of Hayman’s Butchers in the 80s. They have two children – Mark and Emma – who both have successful careers, Mark in farming and Emma in accountancy, so neither are in a position to take the business forward.

Hayman’s has had numerous awards over the years from various industry organisations and they deliver their pies, sausages, pasties and puddings across the country.

Following a recent fire authority inspection the shop is required to undertake a large amount to work to ensure the premises are fire compliant. Those costs tipped the balance in favour of closing.

The family said: “It’s been a pleasure serving the people of Sidmouth and we are very sad to be leaving the town without a quality butcher. This has been a very tough decision and followed much agonising.”