A BARROW town centre shop will remain open despite plans to close it down.

Bedroom Bliss in Dalton Road was opened just last October by former Avis manager Dave Jeffrey.

However, less than a year after opening, Mr Jeffrey was forced to put the 'shop closing' signs up after he got into arrears with what he has described as "ridiculous business rates".

Mr Jeffrey, who is from Morecambe, said: "The rates for just the ground floor are ridiculous, we're talking about £12,500 a year.

"It's killing me. I'm behind, I'm not ashamed to admit that, I'm struggling.

"I've repeatedly tried talking to Barrow Borough Council to see if we can come up with some way of paying it but there's just no give. They're not interested if you're not a big name."

Mr Jeffrey, 48, planned on closing on Monday, August 15, but his landlord and suppliers have since approached him and asked him to remain open.

"I got a phone call from the landlord and he said 'Dave, what's going on?' and I explained the situation with the rates. The council say they want to support businesses but what exactly are they doing?

"The landlord and my suppliers asked me to stay open, at least until the end of September, as I've already paid the rent. I'm really grateful for all the support I've had so far, and will give it my best shot."