MORE than 3,600 people have signed an Echo petition to save the Basildon town centre M&S.

On Thursday, The Echo launched a petition against the closure of Town Square’s M&S which has been at the heart of Basildon since it opened in November 1971.

The retailer is entering into consultation about its Basildon store, which has left shoppers fearing it could be “the death of the town centre”.

In just a weekend, the petition has accrued an incredible 2,700 signatures (at the time we went to print) from concerned and saddened residents who are hopeful the store can be saved.

One supporter, Natalie Webb, said: “M&S Basildon is the heart of the town!

“I visit there most days either for food, the cafe or a mooch around for a treat.

“Lots of old folk also visit and buy food there too.

“These loyal customers can’t get to Mayflower, Lakeside or Brentwood.

“If this store closes down, it will be so bad for the town.

“It needs a revamp if it’s about not taking enough money, as I’m sure this is what it boils down to.”

The proposed closure of M&S has followed department store, BHS closing last year, when the nationwide chain went bust.

Fast-food giant, McDonalds even closed its Town Square base in 2013, saying it was no longer “economically viable”.

Another supporter, Alice Rew, said the shop is an integral part of the lives of many elderly people in Basildon.

She added that without M&S Basildon, her grandmother would suffer socially and it could leave her isolated.

Alice said: “My nan, who is 84 years old, mainly visits this shop in the town for food clothes or uses the cafe.

“It is with in walking distance from her house.

“Many elderly people use this shop as a place to socialise with friends and do shopping and is a shame it will be taken away from not only them but all those who use it.

“And, of course, those who work there.”

Susan Ager supported Alice’s view, adding that the loss of the store will be incredibly damaging to the town centre.

She said: “It will be a sad day if and when this store closes down.

“I have shopped in M&S for years, purchasing clothing and shoes for my husband, son, granddaughter and sister.

“M&S epitomises good quality products for fair prices.

“I have often found items in the food department that I cannot find elsewhere.

“I personally cannot get to the Mayflower Retail Park, so I really do depend on good shopping possibilities within the Basildon Town Centre.

The Echo has been amazed by the support of the petition so far and we are hopeful it will continue to grow through the retailer’s consultation.

l To sign up and held save Basildon town centre’s M&S, go to Change.org and search; “Save Basildon’s Marks and Spencer”.