A TOWN centre store is to close its doors next week less than a year after it opened.

The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) moved into the former Marks and Spencer store in Broadway, Accrington, in May.

At the time the opening created nine jobs at the branch.

However signs have now been placed up at the store stating it will be closing on Saturday, March 24, and a closing down sale is now taking place.

Staff at TOFS head office said redeployment of staff members at the closed store is their top priority.

Cllr Munsif Dad, who represents the Accrington Town Team on the council, admitted the area was facing some hard times.

He said: “Obviously it’s sad to see another shop closing in Accrington.

“It is sad to see that Accrington town centre is not being able to bring in some of the big brand names.

“We thought TOFS might be able to offer something different, and it is disappointing to see they will be leaving, especially after such a short time.

“Accrington, and other town centres like it across the country, are going through a very difficult time.

“Back in the 1970s and 1980s Accrington was very vibrant.

“These days people are shopping online more or going to out of town shopping centres like the Trafford Centre, which Accrington cannot compete with. But we as a council are doing everything we can to improve the town centre and will do our best to bring news businesses into the area.

“There is a lot of investment in the town centre with the new town square plans, and hopefully the area will be on the up soon.”

The store aimed to bring customers UK brands at discount prices and offered up to 70 per cent discounts across multiple departments including fashion, beauty, home and more.

The Original Factory Shop was established back in 1969 and has more 200 stores nationwide.

Previously M&S shut its store at the site in March 2016 after 54 years of trading in the town.

Cllr Miles Parkinson, council leader, said: “We see there are difficulties a lot of retailers are facing.

“It is important that we recognise there’s been a change in shopping habits.

“We want to help the Arndale fill that unit.

“It’s important that the retail shops are flourishing as that increases footfall for the town centre."

A spokesman for TOFS said: “The Accrington clearance store was only intended to be a short-term outlet.

“Redeployment of staff is our top priority.”