SHOPPERS desperate to keep Marks & Spencer on Accrington’s high street have launched an online petition.

Signed by almost 1,000 people within days of its launch, the petition calls on the retail giant’s bosses to change their mind.

SIGN THE PETITION HERE!

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Last week, M&S announced it would close the doors of its store in Broadway after 53 years, sparking upset in the town.

Resident Carrie Horrigan said: “Closing M&S will truly be the death of Accrington. There are lots of older folks who depend on it for some quality products. This town really needs M&S.”

Lynn Barnes said: “I feel it’s the only decent store that offers a wide variety, ranging from good quality clothing in various sizes, age groups, to good wines and foods.

“It would be a loss to Accrington town centre.”

And Simon Cotton said: “M&S is the flagship store of the town and has been an integral part of the shopping experience for 53 years.

“Without it, we risk causing a domino effect for other big businesses to close.”

Diana Malone said: “I’m signing because I think closing Marks & Spencer’s Accrington branch would be the death knell for the town centre.”

The store is set to close in the spring, with its 28 members of staff sent to nearby branches or to the new Rawtenstall store.

Council bosses told the Lancashire Telegraph they will try to thrash out a deal with Marks and Spencer in a bid to keep the store open.

Councillor Clare Cleary, chairman of Accrington Town Team, said she feared M&S leaving could spark a “domino effect”.

The council has been in touch with management at the Arndale Centre, which is M&S’ landlord, to arrange a meeting.

One of the options expected to be tabled is for the retailer to take a smaller unit that will sell only food like its new Rawtenstall store, which is set to open in the spring.

Cllr Cleary said: “We will sit down and speak to them but because it is a commercial decision we do not have much clout.

“If they want to move somewhere, it is their decision. It is terrible for the staff and the town centre because it is like the flagship store. But we are hoping to sit down with them.”