RUMOURS Greggs could be about to open in Leigh has left traders calling for the town to "keep chains out". 

The bakery brand is thought to be considering a site in the quaint town but the news has not gone down well with independent retailers. 

While Gregg’s have not confirmed a location, it has promised that “any information will be shared in due course.”

Sara Welton, owner of Sara’s Tea Rooms in Old Leigh, said: “We should keep chains out and keep our independents in, especially when it comes to food.

“There are homemade bakers in Leigh, we really do not need a chain, there is another baker further afield in London Road and to be fair, Gregg’s won’t really affect us.

“Two bakers is enough and it is an embarrassment to see so many chains in the city centre despite our city status, I don’t know how its been allowed to get like that.

“We want to keep independent business in Leigh as long as we can, if there is an independent shop, we have to support it or they will cease.”

David Elcock, spokesman for Totally Locally Leigh, said: “What do they offer? They muscle in and do the same kind of thing an independent store does.

“You always worry they will take money out of the town, independents give a certain special feel and money stays local.

“When an outside chain moves in, money goes elsewhere and it can sometimes really take that unique feel out of the town.

“Generally, independents in Leigh do not like the idea of a chain moving in, there is already that kind of bakery offering in Leigh.

"I am not really sure if people would use it, there are different types of customers however, some won’t think twice.”

A Greggs spokesman said: “Greggs is always looking into new shop locations. While we are unable to confirm anything at the moment, we will share any information in due course.”