The RSPCA has blamed an increase in rent prices for closing its Kenilworth branch.

The national animal charity is shutting its store at Abbey End, and is currently offering half price discounts on many of its items.

Donations are no longer being accepted - aside from greetings cards - as the store begins to wind down.

A spokesperson for the RSPCA Warwickshire South & East Branch said: “It is with a heavy heart that we are having to announce the closure of our branch charity shop in Kenilworth. 

“The lease is due for renewal on 31 August and we were unable to commit to the ten year lease with the proposed £3,000 a year increase in rent cost.

“The charity will continue to operate its shop on Regent Street in Leamington Spa, so we’ll be focussing our attention on raising as much money as we can to help animals in the local area via the shop.

“The Leamington Spa shop has been refurbished and has more space than we have in Kenilworth. We really hope that shoppers will come and have a look at us in our new surroundings – and grab a bargain too!

“We’d welcome your donations and are always looking to welcome new volunteers with an enthusiasm for animal welfare to help with a wide range of roles. 

“We are enormously grateful to everyone who has supported our work through the Kenilworth charity shop, to everyone who has worked there and all who have given up their time volunteering.”

Local property agent Creative Retail is now advertising the unit for rent, available for £27,500 per year.

"Kenilworth is an affluent market town in Warwickshire. Located five miles from Warwick and Royal Leamington Spa, and six miles South of Coventry," the advert says.

"The unit is located in a parade of shops fronting Abbey End. Nearby retailers include Almanack Bar & Restaurant, Oxfam, Subway, and other strong independent retailers.

"The unit benefits from a rear dedicated service bay with pay and display car parking."