Two of Twickenham's longest surviving market town traders have been given a week to get out of their King Street shops.

Cousins greengrocers and Wishbone butchers on the corner of the grade two listed building at 34-36 King Street, Twickenham got their first official notice on Monday in six line letters, identical but for the owners' names.

Paul Cooper, of Cousins greengrocers, and Daryl Cygler, of Wishbone butchers, said they were given short term contracts by their landlord, Forrestdale Investments Limited, despite repeatedly asking to extend.

Mr Cooper has run Cousins greengrocer's for nearly six years, but the business has been in his family for 42 years.

He said: "The way we've been treated is a disgrace. If we can't get relocated in Twickenham, with the parking we need, I'll be forced to close the family business."

Mr Cygler, owner of Wishbone butchers, said: "What I can't understand is that they didn't ask us if we wanted to buy the properties. They don't know our financial situations, maybe we could offer them more than they think."

George Keppe, solicitor acting on behalf of both businesses, said: "The traders knew their rights were limited, but were given the firm impression they would be given more notice. Yes, the landlord is within its legal rights but we have the moral high ground here. I will be appealing to their sense of justice on this."

Esther Warboys, Twickenham town centre manager, said: "We are trying to maintain the integrity of Twickenham town centre for shoppers and businesses alike. Two of the most prominent shops being shut down in this way is a real blow."

Ms Warboys said the council has not received a planning application for these properties. Forrestdale Investments Limited who own the properties declined to comment.