BOTH of Stockton Heath's councillors are tipping Marks and Spencer's move to the village to be a success.

A M&S food hall is set to replace the Co-operative's store in The Forge.

Details on when the move will take place have yet to be confirmed but it is believed it is set for July.

Cllr Laurence Murphy (LAB – Stockton Heath) admits he is eagerly anticipating the prospect of seeing the new store in the village.

"I believe that it will bring a new vibrancy and draw more people into our village centre," he added.

Cllr Stephen Taylor (CON – Stockton Heath) said it was a 'shame' for the village to lose a retailer which has served it 'well for so many years' but is confident of the food hall fulfilling the needs of shoppers.

"One of my main concerns is the viability of the retail sector in Stockton Heath - the daytime economy is very important and I would like it to be sustainable and as vibrant as the night time economy," he added.

"I am heartened to hear that a company with the profile of M&S are prepared to vote for Stockton Heath and make the village the new home for one of its shops.

"I am sure residents will be thrilled that there will be another high street name operating in the village."