We shared the news that staff have bid a sad farewell to Carlisle's House of Fraser as it closes its doors for the final time.

The closure of the store comes amid a challenging period for Carlisle's high street, and bricks-and-mortar businesses more generally. "I think the day for department stores is over," one staff member said.

Here's what readers said.

Rhonda McWilliams and Maureen Myers said the news was 'sad'.

Therese Chisem said: "I have no interest in buying online. It has killed the shops off. I go to places that still have department stores and decent shops."

Suzanne Reay said: "Very sad. I popped next door on my break to say good luck to the lovely girls on the makeup counters."

Stephen Mcknight added: "Another nail in Carlisle's town centre coffin. I feel sorry for anyone who is in retail in the centre of town."

Tina Nunn said: "Loved working in Binns," which used to occupy the House of Fraser building.

One web user said: "Saw the shutters down this morning. So sad."

John Fawcett commented: "Been a dead shop for years same as most of the town centre."

Another web user said: "Carlisle hasn't got the population to keep a city centre alive. I know cities all over are struggling, but in terms of population Carlisle is just a large town really."