STAFF members at town centre meat shop Wayne Walker have been told they are out of a job this morning after the store suddenly shut down.

Workers were left shocked and in tears at the news, with seven people told they will now have to find new jobs.

A message in the window of the Bradshawgate business said the outlet has closed due to 'unforeseen circumstances.'

The company has said it is 'regrettable' that the Bolton store has had to close, but said it has never matched the success of other sites.

The large unit has been based at the gateway to the town centre since it opened in 2014.

One staff member, who did not wish to be named, said staff turned up for work as normal today before being told the crushing news.

He said: "We had no idea this was happening, the mood is very sad and people were crying.

"The staff members who will now have to look for work, we have three weeks pay and then that is it.

"We have all enjoyed working here and it is a great little team that has worked their hearts out for the business, so we are all really sad and shocked today."

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A spokesman for the company, which is based in Stoke, said: "It is regrettable that we've had to take the decision to close our Bolton Store after three and a half years, but it had never matched the success of our Burslem Store in Stoke and it just wasn't sustainable.

"I'd like to thank all of the staff for their hard work and dedication and that I'm sorry it has worked out this way. However, we will continue to look after our customers in Bolton.

"Our mobile butcher Paul, has been at Farnworth every Friday for the last 20 years, and will remain to do so for the future.

"Anyone who wants to make the most of our special offers and great value produce, can visit him for a guaranteed personal service or let us come to you and order for home delivery."

General Manager Ian Wallbanks added: "All staff have been given a three week notice period and full redundancy packages.

"I have told them they can work here during that period, stripping back the shop, or not if they don't want to but they will still be paid.

"We are immensely proud of the staff here who are like a little family and are very sad that this has happened.

"We tried everything to keep the shop open but unfortunately it has been making a loss for eight months, it just hasn't worked."

He added: "But we are so proud of the team here who have given everything during some difficult circumstances."