A TOWN centre café has closed its doors after a turbulent year with poor food hygiene ratings and previous closure annoucements

Chalkies, formally known as Butters, shut, for what appears to be the final time, earlier this month, with no explanation for the closure.

In April this year former owner Stuart Blake revealed on social media that the vintage-inspired eatery was to close, but this was argued by Mr Blake, before the café changed names and was handed over to Mr Blake’s son, Gary, who opened in May.

And just four months later, in August, the lease to the building was advertised by estate agents Belvoir and a post on social media read: “Unfortunately Chalkies’ owner no longer wants to continue with the lease in Andover, so the remaining lease is going on with Belvoir anyone interested would you please contact them direct.”

Since the closure earlier this month the windows of Chalkies have been painted over.

However, there was backlash following the announcement as customers aired concerns over a gig that they had bought tickets for, but in the previous days it has been reported that all those who booked have now been given refunds.

And the café has said: “We have been to everyone in our book and everyone has been refunded finally, thank you to all our customers we met some really lovely people, and had some great nights and many memorable occasions, Now hopefully we can move onto other things.”

Many people have taken to social media to air their disappointment at the closure, with one customer saying: “It was a fab place. I had lots of fun nights there.”