A family butchers open for 127 years is to close this weekend because of "crippling" business rates.

Dove and Son, a third generation family owned business which opened in 1889, was only two days ago named by Time Out as one of the best butchers in London.  

However, owner and third generation butcher, Bob Dove, said it was too little too late.

He said: "We have been here before the rest of the road was built. It’s too late to talk about my business."

Mr Dove described the business rates, which are £35,000 per year, as "crippling".

He told the Wandsworth Guardian he was "too depressed to talk about it".

Wandsworth Labour leader Simon Hogg says: "It's sad to see another familiar shop vanish from Northcote Road. Business rates are an unfair tax on the high street and a huge burden on our shopkeepers.

"Local businesses don't see why they should have to face higher taxes while the large online retailers aren't paying their fair share."

Northcote Councillor Peter Dawson said: "I would like to send Bob Dove my best wishes for the future."