MARKS and Spencer in Golden Square will close its doors for the final time on Saturday.

The high street giant announced plans to shut six stores across the country in April and residents were angry to discover that the town centre branch was one of those earmarked for closure as part of a restructure programme.

A spokesman for the company confirmed that all 95 staff at the shop have been offered jobs in nearby branches, with most of them choosing to go to the store in Gemini Retail Park and some leaving for the food shop in Stockton Heath.

But a handful of colleagues have decided not to join another store and are in conversation with managers about their next steps.

A spokesman added: “We have worked with every colleague individually on what is best for them and the vast majority of colleagues are moving to Marks and Spencer Gemini or another local store.”

The company has had a presence in the town centre since it first opened a stall in the old Warrington Market before moving to a shop on Sankey Street in the 1930s.

When Golden Square opened in 1979, Marks and Spencer was one of the first brands to move in.

Many residents were angry to hear that the town centre store will be closed and a campaign was started to save the store.

Council bosses also objected to the company’s plans and called on the business to rethink their decision.

But council leader Cllr Terry O’Neill said although he was ‘disappointed’ by the news, the town centre has a ‘bright future’ thanks to the ongoing regeneration project.

A spokesman for Golden Square confirmed last month that they are looking for a new retailer to set up inside the unit occupied by Marks and Spencer.

Golden Square was approached for a comment about whether another company has agreed to move in or if the unit is likely to stand empty but there was no reply.