April 23, 2019 4.39 pm This story is over 67 months old

Boston M&S to close this week despite campaign

“This week has been the hardest with goodbyes being said and tears being shed”

Marks & Spencer will close its Boston store this week, despite a long-fought campaign to keep it open.

As previously reported, the store will close its doors for good on April 27 and all 49 staff will be moved on.

The company is encouraging customers to go to their nearest store in the Springfields Outlet near Spalding.

M&S made the announcement after a long consultation process that started in January to see if the store could be kept open.

A well-supported campaign preceded an announcement on supporters’ Facebook page: “It is still difficult to comprehend that we are losing this store after more than 100 years in the town.

“Our thoughts and thanks must go to the staff who are either retiring, transferring or moving on elsewhere.

“You have all been a credit to the store and to our town, always helpful and friendly. We are all saddened it has come to this.

“We did our best to let head office know how the town felt but sadly to no avail, not even a public acknowledgement for our efforts to support you all.”

The post sparked a wave of comments, where people said it would be difficult to say goodbye.

Karen Halifax wrote: “I know from my friends who are still working at Boston M&S how hard these last weeks have been.

“This week has been the hardest with goodbyes being said and tears being shed. The decision to close 100 stores will hit each town hard.”

Rosemary Wilson also commented: “I retired last October after over thirty years serving the people of Boston.

“I miss my work friends and the customers that have become friends over the years. Thank you for for kind words and supporting your local M&S.”