Award-winning Carlisle lingerie business Turnbulls is closing today after 71 years.

Last December the business, based at Carlyle's Court, off Fisher Street, issued a statement saying it would close due to 'ongoing problems beyond their control'.

The company's website now says: "We have had a terrible year with water coming through the ceiling and we are a self-contained ground floor unit! We feel we simply have no choice, but to leave this unit."

Turnbulls is run by sisters Sheila Wykes and Alison Johnston. They have earned a reputation for superb customer service.

In 2014 the shop won the Excellence and Outstanding Achievement Award at the UK Underlines Best Shop Awards - the industry's Oscars. Turnbulls has been a finalist on several other occasions.

Sheila told The Cumberland News this week: "People are being so kind. They've sent cards, flowers, chocolates, champagne, wine. It's lovely to know that customers care so much. We can't thank them enough.

"People have been so appreciative. We knew we had a big following but we didn't realise how big."

The business was founded in Currock in 1947 by Sheila and Alison's parents, Beryl and Arthur. Initially it sold clothing and gifts.

The shop moved to Scotch Street, then Kinmont Arcade for 19 years, and its current home 13 years ago.

Sheila and Alison have been in charge since 1975, when their parents died. The sisters streamlined the product range, becoming lingerie specialists.

Sheila has not ruled out the possibility that Turnbulls may reopen elsewhere.

She added: "We need to take time out. After the summer we'll make a decision. For now we just want to say a great big thank you.

"So many people have said they're going to come in on Saturday just to say goodbye. I'm filling up just thinking about it."