A popular clothing store initially saved from the chop is set to shut for good this week.

Joules in Whitstable will close its doors on Saturday, according to a notice on the retailer's website.

The troubled retailer was bought by rival Next for £34 million after falling into administration in November.

Despite the rescue deal, 19 stores were closed with immediate effect with the loss of 133 jobs- but the Whitstable and Ashford branches were saved.

However, the company has now confirmed its High Street outlet will close for good on Saturday. The Ashford branch remains open.

Shoppers have taken to Facebook to express their disappointment at the loss of the store, which opened in the former Pauls of Whitstable premises in 2019.

Ann Hudson said: "Such a shame, I love Joules clothing. Good quality and washes nice."

Lynnda Wise posted: "Just when it started to be worth shopping in Whitstable."

And Vanessa Hughes-Lewis added: "It seemed to fit in well with the town. Their colourful coats seem a popular style locally. It is disappointing."

It is the latest business to leave Whitstable High Street. Earlier this week, it was announced the town's branch of Lloyds would be shutting in May.

Last month, Next said most Joules staff would remain with the business in the long-term and confirmed plans to shift Joules on to its Next Total platform system.

Next chief executive Lord Simon Wolfson said: “We are excited to see what can be achieved through the combination of Joules’s exceptional product, marketing and brand building skills with Next’s Total Platform infrastructure.”