A LEDBURY chocolate firm has said it will be closed by Christmas unless trade improves. 

Choccotastic, the chocolate shop and tearoom at The Homend Mews, has revealed last week's trade was their worst for years, meaning it is looking likely they won't be able to stay open in the new year. 

And now they have issued a desperate plea for help to ensure they don't lose the 'heart and soul' of the business. 

Choccotastic initially released a statement in August notifying customers of its struggles. 

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There was then a spike in visitors over the summer which looked like it would allow them to survive. 

However, customers have since dipped, plunging the business back into trouble. 

Heather Cambridge, the managing director and chocolatier, said: "A few months ago, I did a very honest post about our struggles in our Ledbury shop and tearoom and the response I got was lovely. 

"Since the start of October, we have seen a decline in visitors, and last week was our worst week for years. 

"I know Ledbury is predominantly a tourist town but we need our locals now more than ever to pop into the town once in a blue moon and support all of Ledbury's independent traders. 

"With changes in the economy added to the mix, I can reluctantly admit that if you don't support us in the run-up to Christmas, we won't be here in 2025. 

"If we have to close, then that's the way it has to be and Choccotastic will continue its journey with manufacturing and wholesale as that side of the business is growing rapidly. 

"But, we don't want to lose our base in Ledbury, this is where it all started and our whole heart and soul have gone into creating the wonderful chocolatey heaven that it is."

She added many small business owners were in the same situation but feel they can't say out loud how bad it really is. 

"Far too many of them have simply closed down and their dream is gone forever. 

"Please help Ledbury keep its wonderful independent shops, cafes, restaurants and other small businesses going and just use us this festive period."