The closure of a family-run cafe has left customers feeling “devastated”.

Oasis Coffee Shop, in The Spires Shopping Centre, Barnet, has been run by Feza and Julie Djevat, and their son Talip, for more than 17 years.

The cafe was closed last Tuesday, after financial difficulties.

In the days since it closed, both the cafe's owners and its customers have expressed their sadness.

Feza Djevat, 59, who lives in Oakwood, said: “We are devastated, and so are our customers. We had customers who have been coming since we opened. The children are very affectionate towards us too.

“The most important thing was we didn’t get a chance to say goodbye, especially as we were so close to the customers. For this to happen is a big shock.”

His wife Julie Djevat, 57, said: “It’s a shock to everyone. I cannot go back and face the cafe, it upsets me too much. I feel numb.”

Gina Steels, 44, who lives in Mays Lane, Barnet, has visited the cafe with her 17-year-old son Luke, who has autism, since it opened.

She explained how many people with disabilities and mental health issues enjoyed using the cafe.

Mrs Steels, who has diabetes and epilepsy, said: “They have put so much time into the cafe. The customer service is brilliant, and there was a real sense of community.

“They made everyone feel welcome, they built up friendships with their customers. They gave such a personal service, it meant so much. There was a smile for everybody that walked in.

“The impact is huge on the local community. People will stop visiting the Spires, which will have an impact on other shops too.”

Paul Sadler, 51, has also visited the cafe since it opened, and said it was a “massive loss”.

Mr Sadler, a producer who lives in Oakleigh Park, added: “People are devastated, wandering round the Spires wondering why they have gone. The effect this move has had goes beyond a cafe being closed down.

“People won’t get the service elsewhere that they receive there. It brings huge value to the community.”

Simon Ellinas, another cafe user, said: “The Djevat family worked long hours every day of the week providing a friendly and affordable service for Barnet residents, families, local business people and fellow shop workers. Many physically and mentally-impaired regulars used the Oasis as their haven.

“The prices, cheaper than elsewhere, ensured that pensioners and others needing to watch their pennies always had somewhere to go, eat and socialise during the day.”

Other customers took to the cafe’s Facebook page to share their thoughts.

Sharon Ensom said: “It is such a shame and a real loss for Barnet and The Spires to lose such a friendly, family-run business that provided great food.”

Rebekah Aiston said: “I'm so so sad about this.... Great place, so friendly, brilliant with all the customers younger and older.”

A statement was posted on The Spires’ website, which said: “We are sorry to see the Oasis Cafe close down in The Spires. We have spent many months trying to work with the owners of the cafe to find a solution to their difficulties and regret that they were unable to continue their business.

“We wish them all the best in their next venture.”