A VINTAGE and retro shop in Newport city centre has announced it is closing in its current building.

Owner of Black Bear Vintage, Christopher Baldwin, has said "issues with the building" in Commercial Street, Newport, mean the business will not be re-opening after the Bank Holiday weekend.

The Newport trader has said he hopes to re-open the shop in a new location.

A statement signed by Mr Baldwin on the Black Bear Vintage Facebook page said: "It's with an extremely heavy heart I have to announce that the shop will not be reopening after the Bank Holiday weekend.

"This is due to an issue with the building we currently reside in. I will be looking at potential properties over the next few days and we will be back ASAP.

"I'm sorry for the inconvenience, but I couldn't allow any of you to come into what could potentially be an unsafe building. Will keep you updated. Thanks for everything."

Several people expressed sadness at the news, with many also offering support to the shop.

The shop joined forces with other vintage businesses to open an 'emporium' at the Commercial Street building in April.

Mr Baldwin, who previously worked in mental health and has always had a passion for vintage products, first launched The Black Bear Vintage Emporium brand in January.

He took over the vintage and retro section of the Friends of St Anne’s Hospice charity shop in Commercial Street, Newport, where his products proved popular.

For updates, visit Black Bear Vintage on Facebook.