A HEXHAM resident is urging others to sign a petition to try and save their 'vital' community  store announced its possible closure.

Simon Kitchen has created a petition on Change.org in order to try and save the Marks and Spencer store in Hexham.

This comes after a statement was issued on Tuesday, February 27, M&S announced to its staff that it was considering proposals to close the Maidens Walk store in Hexham due to changing shopping habits.

Read more Closure proposed for Marks & Spencer, Maiden's Walk, Hexham

The announcement follows the news earlier this year that M&S plans to close dozens of stores across the UK over the next five years, which is hoped will save the business millions of pounds.

So far the petition has 862 signatures.

In the petition, Simon wrote: "My family and I are regular patrons of the Marks & Spencer store in Hexham. It is more than just a store for us; it is a vital part of our community. The proposed closure threatens to remove an essential resource from our town centre, impacting not only my family but many others who rely on its services.

"Hexham's M&S provides variety to both food and clothes shoppers in a struggling town centre. Its closure would significantly limit shopping options for residents, forcing them to travel further or settle for less variety. Moreover, it serves as an important social hub, particularly for older residents who use its café as a gathering place.

"The loss of this facility could have severe implications on the local economy and social fabric of Hexham. According to data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), retail closures can lead to increased unemployment rates and decreased consumer spending within local economies.

"We urge Marks & Spencer management and local authorities to reconsider this decision and explore alternative solutions that will keep our beloved M&S open. This petition isn't just about preserving a store; it's about maintaining the vitality of our community in Hexham.

"Please sign this petition today if you believe in keeping M&S open in Hexham!"

Pleased with the petition signatures so far, Hexham Mayor, Derek Kennedy said: “The number of people signing the petition for M&S to stay shows the strong feeling everyone has for the Hexham store. I do hope the senior executives at M&S do reconsider and keep the shop open. We do love and want  M&S  in our town. “ 

Angie Scott, Labour Councillor for Prudhoe North said “The planned closure of M&S in Hexham is a major blow for the town and the surrounding area. Many people travel into Hexham to shop at M&S from places like Prudhoe so there will be a knock on effect on other shops and businesses. A coherent strategy to support shops in Hexham and all our towns is needed. I am also concerned about the staff and hope that M&S will be helping them find alternative employment.

"I hope M&S will reconsider their decision and urge Northumberland County Council and our local MP to do all they can to support local businesses."

Cllr Gordon Stewart adds: " I am delighted that this petition has been started and is already attracting attention from residents throughout the area not just Hexham. To have a M & S store in the area is vital for many other businesses as well as customers.

"If a petition was not available people would wonder for a long time if they could have helped save it the store & jobs. I wish to urge everyone to sign and share this petition."