Blockbuster to close Newtown store

DVD, computer games and Blu-ray rental giant Blockbuster is to close its store in Newtown with the possible loss of jobs, bosses announced today.

The firm said it was closing the High Street branch on May 27 after a review of store locations forced them into making a 'difficult' decision.

The firm did not say how many people were employed at the shop, but vowed to look at redeploying as many as possible.

A Blockbuster spokesman said: "We can confirm we have made the tough decision to close the store in Newtown on May 27.

"We do look to redeploy staff where possible and will work with the staff to provide as much support as we can during this difficult transition for them."

It is the latest in a long list of businesses to have pulled out of the town in recent months, including Little Chef, Focus DIY, Shop Direct and others.

However, The Spar in Broad Street has re-opened following a fire which forced its closure for three months and Poundstretcher has opened in the former Focus store in Pool Road.

Former mayor, Joy Jones, said she was 'gutted' that Blockbuster had decided to pull out of the town.

She said: "I am devastated for the youngsters in the town as it is somewhere where I know they go and spend money and can get something they enjoy.

"I feel really sorry for the people who are losing their jobs too because there are so few places in Newtown now offering work."