A high street cafe has made the “heartbreaking” decision to shut its doors.

Tiffin Teahouse in East Malling has called it a day with immediate effect.

The business, which opened in June 2022, sold pasties, sandwiches, fry-ups and hot and cold drinks.

But last week the village cafe posted an announcement.

It read: “The Tiffin Teahouse is now closed. It’s beyond our control and we are absolutely heartbroken.

“The last 20 months of being here and part of your beautiful community has been everything we wanted and more.

“We never thought we would do so well and gain so many friends that have become more like family.

“To begin to even thank you all for the support and the trust you all gave us, makes us really sad.

“Please believe that [during] the last three weeks we have done absolutely everything to make sure this didn’t happen, and tried really hard but there is really nothing more we can do.

“It doesn’t feel like we just lost a business, but also our home.

“We really do love you all from the bottom of our hearts. and are grateful beyond words for the support and kindness you have shown us.

“We won’t ever forget it”.

Many of the cafe’s regulars were equally as sad at the news, as hundreds posted supportive comments online.

One person said: “Oh no, this is not good.

“You created not only a thriving business but a much-needed one in East Malling, a friendly hub of happiness that locals and others so looked forward to visiting.”

Another person added: “Shocked and gutted to hear this.

“I used to come with my grandson. He will be so gutted too, loved the place and the girls who served us with a smile.

“We needed this cafe so desperately in East Malling, especially the likes of us who didn’t drive. Really, really sad”.

Tiffin announced it was facing electrical issues back on February 29, and so had to close temporarily.

Staff then revealed work to fix the issue was “taking longer than expected”.

This was followed by their final announcement on Saturday night confirming its closure.

Bosses have been approached for more information as to why the shop has permanently closed.