Staff at a North East Wilko store have said their farewells to residents as the retail giant prepares to shut all of its stores.

Employees at Wilko in Washington Galleries have bid goodbye to residents and shoppers ahead of their closure on Tuesday (October 3).

They thanked their loyal customers for their support over the last 11 years.

Workers at the store left a signed notice inside informing shoppers of the closure and bid customers farewell.

Read more: Pictures show damage after huge barn fire near Bedale

The Northern Echo:

The sign read: "To all of our loyal customers. We want to let you know we are closing our doors for the last time on Tuesday, October 3.

"We are having a buffet on our last day to say farewell to each other. Any donations would be much 'appreciated.'

"We would like to thank you all for your loyalty and support over the last 11 years.

"From all of us at Wilko Washington."

Read more: Police recovered 100 cannabis plants in raid at house in Wheatley Hill

Residents reacted to the news of the store's closure with sadness and expressed how "gutted" they were by the news.

One saddened resident said: "I think half the country is sad to see Wilkinsons go. Just as bad as when Woolies went."

Another disappointed resident said: "Best shop in The Galls! Gutted it’s closing, best of luck to all the staff."

While another dejected resident said: "So sad, absolutely gutted. Good luck to all the staff I hope you all find something quickly."

Read next:

It's the last day of the flash sale! Get more from The Northern Echo with a £1 for 1 month Premium Plus subscription. Click here.

Wilko will shut its final 111 stores in early October as part of the final phase of closures, administrators for PwC said.

 A number of stores in the North East have been snapped up by competitor Poundland after a deal to save Wilko by HMV collapsed earlier this week. 

Nationally, the Pepco Group will rebrand 71 former Wilko branches as Poundland and hire new staff, prioritising those who previously worked staffed the shops.