A ROMSEY aquatic centre has closed its doors for the final time after trading for 36 years, it has been revealed.

Romsey World of Water, Greatbridge Road, announced they had gone into administration on Sunday, January 26.

Now the administration company, Quantuma, is set to sell all of Romsey World of Water's remaining stock.

A statement on Romsey World of Water's Facebook page reads: "It is with regret we have to announce that we have had to close our doors for the final time on Friday.

"Despite our best efforts to stay open in recent months many things have happened resulting in us having to make this tough decision.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers, suppliers and friends that have been there along the way over the years and wish you all the best moving forward in the future."

They added: "The business is now in the hands of an administration company, Quantuma, so there are no staff anymore.

"All remaining stock will be sold off by the administration company; unfortunately messages wont be replied to either from now on."

Romsey town centre manager, Mark Edgerley, said: "I saw the news on Facebook on Sunday and I had heard rumours about them struggling for the last 12 months.

"I think it is probably down to a lack of confidence in retail and they have not been getting the customers down there either.

"It is sad because it was a good business, which specialised in ponds and fish, and a lot of people used to go out there with their children to see the Carp fish."

He added: "This time of year is the hardest for garden centres as it is a slower period of trade.

"I think the company going into administration has come as a shock to everybody, but if your cash flow isn't there then you can't survive."

Romsey World of Water and Quantuma have been contacted for comment.

It is not known how many members of staff have been affected by the closure.