SHOPPERS in Bridgwater witnessed an end of an era as one of the town’s oldest stores closed its doors for the very last time.

The closure of Woolworths, in Eastover, was met with a mixture of emotions and also cast fresh doubts over the future of that part of town.

Staff expressed shock and sadness at leaving a store that meant so much to them while some shoppers were “disgusted”.

Woolworths, which has been an integral shopping haven in Eastover since before the Second World War, was forced into administration in November after clocking up debts of almost £400 million.

The Mercury visited Woolworths on its final day and spoke to some of the shoppers, including Bridgwater couple John and Margaret Baker, who have been shopping there since before the Second World War.

Mrs Baker said: “It is very sad to see it go.”