The proposed closure of Basildon's Marks and Spencer will go ahead next month.

The store previously entered into a period of consultation ahead of the proposed closure.

But now, the shop has confirmed it will close on April 21.

Hilary Wilkinson, Head of Region for Essex, said: “Proposing to close the store was a difficult but necessary decision. Over the past few weeks we’ve been consulting with our colleagues, and following this rigorous process, the decision has been made to close the store on 21st April.

“We’d like to thank our customers and members of the local community for the feedback they’ve given over the last few weeks. We hope to see lots of customers continuing to shop at our other stores in Essex including Canvey Island Foodhall when it opens.”