Shoppers have expressed their sadness at the closure of Wilko in Great Malvern.

The Church Walk store shut its doors for the final time on Sunday (September 24) following the collapse of the historic retailer last month.

Wilko fell into administration after coming under pressure from weak consumer spending and debts to suppliers.

Administrators PwC said all of its high street stores will close by Sunday, October 8.

Poundland has agreed to buy 71 Wilko stores - including Worcester and Droitwich - but the future of Malvern’s Wilko is less clear.

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Readers have been sharing their sadness at the retailer’s demise and their memories of the Malvern branch.

“Such a shame,” said Sheenaugh McMahon, “wishing all the lovely staff all the best and thank you for everything. Good luck to you all in the future.”

Lolly Rudge said: “So sad this has happened. I loved Wilko and used it all the time. The staff in there were great and always so helpful. Good luck to you all and thank you.”

Jane McGee said: “It will be sadly missed. We went in at the weekend and it was just a shell. Lots of empty shelves.”

Pamela Meaton reminisced about working in the shop when it was called International Stores “around 40 years ago”.

“Me and my sister did the cleaning there,” she said. “We used to start at 6.30am every morning.”

Shoppers have also been speculating on what stores may come into Great Malvern and take over the unit.

B&M, Home Bargains, Poundland, Mountain Warehouse and The Range have all been mentioned by residents.

The Range has said it will be selling Wilko products in its stores, after striking a deal to buy Wilko’s brand, website and intellectual property.

PwC sought to sell off Wilko’s assets after failing to secure a rescue deal for the whole business.

The Range will also offer click and collect on products from Wilko.com

Jane Steer, joint administrator, said: “Since our appointment, the feedback from customers and wider stakeholders during this challenging period has reinforced the fact that Wilko remains a much loved and trusted brand within the UK.

“This sale to The Range will ensure that the Wilko name lives on under their ownership and we wish The Range every success.”