THE only remaining Woolworths store in Bolton closed its doors for the final time on Tuesday.

The Farnworth shop became one of the last in the country to shut, only days after the main Bolton store closed.

And the loss will leave a big hole in Farnworth town centre, where Woolworths was one of the biggest brand names.

The chain had traded in Bolton for almost a century and went into administration on December 6.

A decision was taken to close all 806 stores and the Deansgate shop closed on Saturday.

The Farnworth branch in Market Street was due to close on Monday, along with another 199, marking the end of Woolworths.

Administrator Deloitte extended the deadline to make arrangements and sell stock.

Staff at Farnworth spoke of their sadness yesterday.

Denise McCarthy was a store team leader and had worked there nearly 11 years.

She said: “I just don’t want to be here when they close the doors, it’s very sad.”

Another store team leader said: “I’ve worked here for 28 years. I started on the Youth Training Scheme and was kept on.

“My mum used to work here too, and she left in 1960.

“It’s very sad and I suppose I feel bitter — it’s not a nice way for it to end. You give your life, then this.”

Kath Rigby, aged 59, of Denstone Crescent, Harwood, has shopped at the store for 30 years.

On Tuesday, she said: “I feel very sad. I think it’s more cosy and homely than supermarkets and has character.

“It will have a big impact on Farnworth. People won’t come here.”