The general manager of Farmers Pantry in Penarth has spoken out against a news report stating that the butcher's shop on Glebe Street had closed for good. 

Louis Mostert, 51, said a WalesOnline story on June 18 reporting that David Lush Butchers had closed permanently after the owner's retirement, with no mention of local chain Farmers Pantry acquiring the site earlier this year, has proved challenging for the business since arriving in the town. 

Farmers Pantry is a small chain of butchers shops with five locations in the Vale and Cardiff, and the new owners took over the Penarth site at the beginning of June. 

Mr Mostert told Penarth Nub News. "It's the same recipes, it's the same staff that worked here under the previous owners, and we're using the same suppliers that used to supply Mr Lush with his produce." 

Farmers Pantry took over the Penarth site at the beginning of June. (Image credit: Jack Wynn)

The team has posted a video on the business Facebook account to explain the misunderstanding. Mr Mostert added: "Once we explained to them [customers] that we're open, they see the same faces behind the counter, and that we don't want to change anything that's already here, and carry on with the legacy of the Lush family, a lot of the feedback has been really positive. 

"We wish David and Maureen a very happy retirement and we're not trying to damage their legacy in any way."  

One popular feature remaining at Farmers Pantry is the Lush baguettes, with permission from the previous owners. "The Lush baguette is the same as it used to be," said Mr Mostert. "It's one of the main things that the business was renowned for. 

"In particular, we have a lot of tradesmen travel far to come to us for the Lush's baguettes. But if they see reports that the shop has closed, they're not going to come to us anymore and they'll end up going somewhere else. 

"So, we hope we've done enough to turn things around and spread the message that we are open." 

Ever since retiring earlier this year, Mr and Mrs Lush still pop into the shop most days to pick up any post and buy produce.