The Manx Cat Café has announced it will close its doors at the end of October, with its owners saying rising costs and falling footfall have made the business no longer financially viable.
The popular Douglas attraction, based on the first floor of Church Street in the town centre, has become well known as the Isle of Man's only cat café, giving visitors the chance to enjoy drinks and light refreshments while spending time with resident Manx cats.
In a heartfelt statement, owners Zoe and Kev said the decision had not been an easy one.
They wrote: 'For more than five years we've poured our hearts into running the café seven days a week while both holding down full-time jobs.
'Unfortunately, with ever-increasing costs and reduced footfall, the café is no longer financially viable. It's time for us to step back, make some time for ourselves and start a new chapter.'
The pair thanked everyone who had supported the business since it opened, describing the experience as one they would 'treasure forever'.
'You've given us incredible memories, close friends and the chance to meet wonderful people from all over the world,' they said.
The café confirmed its final opening weekend will be from Saturday, October 24 to Monday, October 26, and encouraged customers to visit over the coming months to spend time with the cats one last time.
The announcement prompted an emotional reaction on social media, with many customers expressing sadness at the news and thanking the owners for creating what they described as a 'special' and 'unique' place in the island.
Others shared memories of visits with family and friends, while several said the café would be 'greatly missed' and wished Zoe and Kev the very best for the future.