PARENTS have reacted with disappointment over the news that Darlington's Safeway store may lose its creche.

The supermarket in Victoria Road is undergoing a 30-day consultation period, during which the company will decide how best to use the space within the 60,000 sq ft store.

No decisions about the store's refit will be made known until the end of the consultation period on Friday, September 6.

Staff and customers have been notified that the store's makeover could result in the loss of the creche.

The possibility of losing the facility has caused some parents and children to express their disappointment and concern.

In a letter to the creche, one girl has written that she hopes she will be able to continue to play there while her parents go shopping.

A spokesman for Safeway said 70 stores across the UK have creche facilities and they are popular, particularly with regular shoppers.

However, the Darlington store may find that it loses some of its customers if the plans go ahead.

One shopper said: "The only reason I use this Safeway store is because of its creche facility."

The store manager said he was unable to comment.

Customers are being invited to add their views on the matter in a comments book at the creche reception.

They can also give their opinions directly to the store manager or a member of the management team.

Parents can call the store manager on (01325) 465915.