GRASMERE’S world famous gingerbread supplier closed its ‘famous green door’ after 166 years in business due to the impact of the coronavirus.

Sarah Nelson’s Grasmere Gingerbread based in Ambleside closed following government guidelines, but bosses said they are are seeing a boost in online sales with self-isolation packs.

Joanne Hunter, director of the company that was founded by Victorian cook Sarah Nelson in1854, said that the she ‘remains positive’, and said: “The closure has been hard to take but we have a strong connection with our customers and the online sales are getting us through.

“We are lucky that we have the166 years behind us and those still ordering from us feel positive. Many of our online orders are gifts and the personal messages on them just go to show how delicious food can bring good feelings at this uncertain time.”