OWNERS of a Launceston tea shop have received a sad ending to their year, when their shop window was smashed by a teenager, leaving them to pay out an expensive bill.

Dave and Lorraine Tew of the Mad Hatter's Tea Shop on 28 Church Street, were awoken by next door neighbours and owners of Gillard's sweet shop late in the evening on Wednesday, December 28.

"We were in bed and then we heard a banging on the door," said Dave.

The couple were alerted by Jeremy Loft, joint owner of Gillard's sweet shop.

For the full report, and a round up of the area news and sport, please see this week's edition of the 'Post'.