A Stirling haberdashery shop is closing its doors after 138 years, blaming business rate bills.

McAree Brothers, which has traded from premises in King Street since 1893, is believed to be among the oldest shops in the city.

The firm, which originally opened in another site in Stirling in 1878, will continue to trade online and at two smaller shops in Edinburgh and Falkirk.

A spokesman said: "After 138 years we are sadly saying goodbye to Stirling.

"Unfortunately, the business rates on our Stirling premises are now over £27,000 a year.

"This includes an extra tax imposed by the Scottish Government which hits large premises in town centres.

"This tax, together with the costs of maintaining a historic building, makes the premises no longer viable."

The firm said staff employed at the King Street store have begun finding other opportunities.

Although specialising in knitting materials, haberdashery and crafts, McAree Brothers also sold local school and Scout uniforms.

While the store's last full day of normal trading is Wednesday, there will be two clearance sale days, this Saturday and next Saturday, September 24.

The shop's spokesman added: "We would like to thank everyone who has supported our Stirling shop over the years."