A much-loved chocolate shop in Norwich is closing after three years and will shift its focus online. 

Angela Ruthven started Saffire Chocolates 18 years ago after she retired as headteacher of a school for children with special educational needs.

She previously sold handmade artisan chocolates at a unit in Taverham Garden Centre, but in 2020 she followed her dream of getting a shop in the Royal Arcade. 

Norwich Evening News: Angela Ruthven at her former shop at Taverham Garden Centre Angela Ruthven at her former shop at Taverham Garden Centre (Image: Newsquest)

The shop has become very busy, especially with online sales and corporate gifts, over the last three years.

It has got to the stage where the tiny kitchen on the floor above the shop is no longer large enough for production and storage.

Norwich Evening News: Handmade artisan chocolates from Saffire Chocolates Handmade artisan chocolates from Saffire Chocolates (Image: Saffire Chocolates)

It has been decided that the business no longer needs a physical shop and instead, the emphasis will be on online, corporate and trade sales.

Angela is also fully retiring and will be passing the reins on to her granddaughter Kathrin.

The retail shop will close at Easter and the updated website will follow once the new production unit is completed.