A popular ice cream parlour in Lancashire that has served for generations has closed down due to new housing.

Bonds of Elswick served its final scoops last weekend after 70 years of providing memories for customers all over the county. Located in Elswick, near Preston, the popular ice cream parlour opened in 1947 and served as a beloved restaurant to Lancastrians far and wide.

In 2017 Simon Rigby bought Bonds from the previous owner when he retired to save the parlour as it was on the brink of closure. In 2020, Mr Rigby then requested planning permission to demolish the building to build eight new homes.

Sophie Jackson, daughter of the parlour’s tenant, told Lancashire Telegraph that the family is “heartbroken over having to close the business” because it was a decision that was out of their hands.

She said: “We knew it was up for sale but we only got around two weeks’ notice. It’s been really difficult. It just feels horrible because it’s so quiet and empty. It’s heart-breaking really. The staff we hired were part of our family, so it has been hard.

“There’s still things we need to sort out and things we have to pay for but we’ll figure it out.”

The closure was announced on Bonds’ Facebook page last week which prompted hundreds of customers sharing their favourite memories in the comments.

One wrote: “Another childhood institution gone. Growing up in Elswick in the 80s my mum worked there and brought us countless gallons of ice cream and excellent meat from the restaurant.

“We also got to try it from the mixers in the factory which was a completely different taste. It was also the only place open on a Sunday (till 8pm) so cycling round on hot summer evenings to spend our pennies was a rare treat.

“Hope the recipe stays within the Gornall family, as its totally unique.”

Another regular customer said: “Absolutely gutted, always been going to Bonds since I was a child, now my son enjoys going too, there's houses going up everywhere. We'll be there this weekend for our final time.”

One comment that was echoed by others, added: “I’m so sad another piece of my childhood gone.”

Responding to the community's support, Sophie added: “We’ve got to know the locals here and they’re like part of the family so it’s sad to think we won’t get to see them anymore. I just want to thank everyone for their support and their custom and we’re so grateful for everyone.”

Bonds served their customers for the last time on Sunday, December 4.