County coach firm Alexcars has been forced to close as the effects of the coronavirus lockdown take hold.

The family-run Cirencester firm, which has been operating for more than 70 years, announced the decision on its Facebook page last night.

Nobody was available for comment today but the company's statement said the impact of the coronavirus pandemic forced the decision.

It read: "It gives great sadness to announce that the directors of Alexcars Ltd have taken the extremely difficult decision to hang the keys up and cease trading.

"A number of factors in a short time frame have impacted the business, not least Covid-19 which has brought a total loss of revenue in what should be the busiest time of year.

"Alexcars has been proud to serve the people of Cirencester and surrounding areas since 1946 and we are extremely grateful to our customers and fantastic staff and their loyalty over these years.

"During these difficult and challenging times, please stay safe, look after each other and support your local businesses wherever you can."

The company referred all enquiries to administrators Hazelwoods.

The announcement sparked a string of messages and tributes on Facebook from customers and staff.

Dan Rivers wrote: "Alexcars was so much more than just a job. In the grand scheme of things, I wasn't there for very long, but let me tell you - they have been the best years of my working life.

"It sounds like such a cliche but being at Alexcars was like being part of a family."

The news follows the closure of Stand Out Studio in Stroud.

Making the announcement in a statement on LinkedIn, owner Carl Hewlett said the coronavirus had caused a "great deal of concern for both myself and the business".

He wrote: "This isn't a decision I have taken lightly, the past few weeks have been tough.

"I have been a photographer professionally for more than a decade. I don't see this as the end. Although the company is to be no more, I plan to continue working as a photographer as much as possible on a self-employed basis."