A FASHION retail chain has announced the closure of its branch in Hexham.

Value fashion retailer M&Co is closing the store, located on Fore Street in the centre of town.

It is one of the largest, privately-owned fashion retailers in the UK and has sold clothing for 50 years.

Originating nearly 200 years ago in 1834 as a pawnbrokers, the retailer then known as Mackays began selling clothes in 1953, run by brothers Iain and Len McGeoch.

READ MORE: Refurbishment work completed at family butchers

Rebranding as M&Co in 2005, the business now has almost 200 stores across the UK.

A spokesperson from M&Co said: "Regretfully M&Co can confirm the closure of our Hexham store owing to the end of lease.

"Shoppers can continue to shop M&Co online at www.mandco.com or the nearest store is situated in Chester-le-Street."

This closure comes on the back of others in town including discount store Poundland, once located on Priestpopple, and charity shop Scope, based on Old Church, which closed its doors at the end of July this year. 

The Collector's Cellar at Hencotes, which sold model cars, trains, buses and construction vehicles, closed at the end of March after 27 years, when joint owners David Vause and Alistair Neesham decided it was time to retire.

Stores Argos on Fore Street and the Edinburgh Woollen Mill in the Market Place closed Hexham branches in 2020.

It has not been confirmed what will take the place of M&Co once it closes.