A popular shop pet, who charms customers with his chat, needs a new home.

Micky the mynah bird must say goodbye to Witney's Dovecote Pet and Garden Centre in the High Street when it closes in three weeks time, along with about a hundred other pets, including hamsters, rabbits and guinea pigs.

Owner Simon Bentley is shutting the business, which has been in Witney for 25 years, because of long-running problems negotiating a lease.

Micky had been at the shop for ten years and was almost its mascot, said Mr Bentley.

"He loves having a chat and being with customers," said Mr Bentley.

"We will have to find him somewhere he can see a lot of people. I just hope he will be happy."

Also saying farewell on February 24 will be shop assistants Doreen Field, who been there 20 years, Virginia Smith and assistant Lorraine Frisby.

"It is all pretty devastating," said Mr Bentley.

"We have been looking for alternative premises for some time to try and keep the business going, but with no luck because we can't afford the rents.

"Obviously, I hope we might rise from the ashes, but the immediate concern is to deal with the animals."

Story date: Saturday 06 February

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