ONE of Rayleigh’s oldest established Businesses looks set to be saved from closure, thanks to a mystery buyer.

School outfitters Wards went into administration during the summer holidays and other branches, including one in Alexandra Street, Southend, have been closed down.

However, the branch in Eastwood Road, Rayleigh, which has been a school outfitters for over half a century, is still trading, with signs in the window stating, “Business Saved – Under New Ownership”.

Sandra Ford, manager of the branch, said: “Hopefully, we are going to have new owners shortly.

“I can’t say much more at the moment, because talks are still going.

“It is only the Rayleigh branch which is involved, and it will be an independent operator who takes over, so we will be trading on our own.

“We remain open, and we are very optimistic we will have some good news soon.”

Rayleigh Town Council chairman, Dave Sperring, said: “It is excellent news for Rayleigh, especially with a business which has been operating in Rayleigh for so many years.

“I think this helps to show there is still confidence in the town as a shopping centre, even in the current economic situation.”

Carl Watson, chairman of Rayleigh Chamber of Trade, said: “It is good news someone is coming into Rayleigh to buy a business in what is a landmark building in the town.

“The chamber has its Shop Local campaign, and is trying to encourage people not just to buy everything in a supermarket, but look at the bargains which are available in their local shops.”

The Wards shop was previously Alexanders of Rayleigh, an independent firm which had been operating in the town for many years.

As well as school uniforms, the company used to sell ladies fashions and also produced club ties and blazer badges as well as children’s clothes.