A HUGE high street Superdrug store is set to close sparking concerns the town centre will be left with “no real value”.

Superdrug, in Rayleigh High Street, will close its doors for the final time on August 26.

Bosses at the company say staff members have been offered positions in other stores and are being supported following the news.

It is not known why the store is closing.

However, many residents, workers, and former members of staff have shared their sadness.

Katrina Bentley, 45, used to work at the store, and her mum still does.

She said: “I started work there when I was 16, and then managed to get my mum a job there and she’s still there 27 years on.

“It is going to be such a loss for us, especially my mum, as it has been a big part of her life for all these years.

“She loved seeing the customers and knows so many of them after all this time. It is going to be a real blow to lose that interaction.

“I have always found that the staff in Superdrug tried their hardest to go that extra mile to help their customers. Always have a smile and a friendly hello for people. They really try and add to the community of Rayleigh.

“I know a lot of people buy online now, but nothing beats having a wander up and down the aisles to find yourself a little pick me up or treat.

“It is a worry that Rayleigh could become like so many high streets now - a trendy place to go and eat, but no real value add for the local community.”

The next nearest Superdrug branches to Rayleigh are located in The Broadway, in Leigh, and in Furtherwick Road on Canvey.

A spokesman for Superdrug said: “We can confirm that the Rayleigh Superdrug store will be closing on August 26.

“All team members have been offered positions in other stores and are being supported in finding alternative positions in the local area.

“We want to thank all of our customers for their support and in the meantime the closest stores to shop at are located at Leigh and Canvey."