Up to 20 jobs could be created after a nationwide fashion retailer announced it was moving into Welshpool. The firm, Mackays, trades using the name M&Co.

It is set to move into the empty unit in Broad Street left vacant following the collapse of Woolworths this year.

M&Co is believed to have signed a 15-year lease for the 5,465 sq feet unit.

A company spokeswoman said: “We can confirm we have been looking to take over 20 Woolworths stores across the country and Welshpool is one of them.”

She said that no date for opening had been set and it was not known at this time how many jobs would be created.

The shop has stood empty since Woolworths closed for good in December last year.

Welshpool Town Council clerk Robert Robinson said he was delighted with the news.

He said: “I am really thrilled to hear of the news M&Co is going to open up in Welshpool and it is a further boost to our main shopping area in the town.

“It is the only shop in Broad Street which is empty, which is a great testament to the town of Welshpool and its people in these financial times.

“But I will look forward to the opening of the new store and everybody I have spoken to about it so far are in complete favour of it.”

Councillor Alan Crowe, town councillor, said: “I am glad to hear this.

“It’s a very big store and I’m pleased it will be filled by a national retailer.”

M&Co was established in 1834 under the name of Mackays and it one of the largest privately-owned fashion retailers in the UK.

It has been selling clothing for more than 50 years and has nearly 300 stores nationwide, including in Oswestry and Whitchurch.