Co-op supermarket in Sheringham looks set to close

A shop which survived an arson attack fire and has been a town mainstay for many years could be set to close.

The East of England Co-op shop in Church Street, Sheringham, could close after it was revealed the store had been struggling with declining sales for some time.

It is believed the shop, which has been in the town for more than 20 years, has around ten staff.

Roger Grosvenor, executive officer for retail at the East of England Co-op, expressed his regret at the news but said the decision was not being taken lightly.

He said: 'I can confirm that our store on Church Street, Sheringham is being considered for closure. It's always deeply saddening when we have to consider closing a store, and it is not a decision that we take lightly. 'Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of our store colleagues, the store has struggled with declining sales for some time.'

On the social networking site Streetlife, people have been leaving comments saying how saddened they are by the news.

One commentator called Sue B, said: 'Such a shame. I use them a lot and the staff are always so helpful and friendly.'

The shop closed in July 2003 for a month after an arson attack on the flat above it left it badly damaged. It re-opened in August 2003. Virtually all the shop's stock was lost due to damage from the smoke from the water used by firefighters and from the loss of power in the building.

It has hosted numerous fundraising events over the years.

The town has a number of foodstores including Sainsbury's and Tesco which opened in 2013 after a 14-year planning battle.

Do you know of a community asset which could be facing closure? Email tracey.gray@archant.co.uk