RUNCORN Shopping City has issued a statement after confirmation of news that its Wilko store will close.

Administrators said today, Tuesday, that 111 more stores will serve customers for a final time next week.

The firm will close 37 stores after trading on Monday, September 25, a further 37 on Wednesday, September 27, and another 37 on Friday, September 29.

It has been confirmed that the Runcorn store will close on Tuesday.

The closure of Wilko Widnes remains unclear, with the store not appearing on the closure list.

Dave Pearman, centre manager at Runcorn Shopping City, said: “Following the official national announcements, Runcorn Shopping City is sad to confirm the closure of the Wilko store located within the centre.

“Despite attempts, unfortunately administrators have not managed to find a successful buyer for the collapsed retailer’s outlet.

“Therefore, the difficult decision has been taken to close Runcorn Shopping City’s store.

“The closure of Runcorn Shopping City’s branch has now been confirmed as Wednesday, September 27.

“We are disappointed at the outcome for the chain, and we are saddened at the resulting redundancy and job losses that this will inevitably result in. 

“The centre plans to fully support the staff having to leave their jobs due to Wilko’s closure.

“Just some of these measures will include alerting them of available vacancies that come up at Runcorn Shopping City and the surrounding areas and directing them towards charitable organisations that can help if they are struggling to cope with their mental health or financial issues as a result.”