CONCERNS have been raised for staff at a Richmond supermarket after it was confirmed that it would change hands to another retailer.

Co-op Food store, off the roundabout at Queen’s Road, Richmond, has been sold to Lidl – but there are fears that staff could be without a job for up to six months while the transfer takes place.

The store features a popular café and Dorothy Perkins clothing concession, and the future of both are in doubt.

Richmond resident and frequent user of the café, Ellie Brand, said she was very worried about staff at the shop.

Ms Brand, 75, said: “Two days ago we heard the news that the large Co-op Food would be closing next month to be replaced by Lidl.

“It will apparently be closed for six months, so even though staff have been told they will be re-employed, what will they do for six months?

“The café is really lovely – it does excellent coffee and the papers are free so you can sit and read and chat to people you see regularly. I know some groups use it too, and it is generally a real locals’ café rather than a tourist one because it is slightly out of town.

“Dorothy Perkins is the only high street clothes shop in the town so that will be a loss too.”

A spokesperson for the Co-op said: “The decision to sell the store is in no way a reflection on the hard work and commitment from colleagues working at the Richmond store. All colleagues will transfer to Lidl and it will continue to trade as a Co-op until completion of the sale.” Lidl has been approached for a comment.