PARENTS have reacted with dismay over the news that Safeway may lose its creche.

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

No decisions about the refit will be made known until the consultation period ends on Friday, September 6.

Both staff and customers at Safeway have been notified that the store's makeover could result in the loss of the creche.

Customers have been asked to express their views on the matter in a comments book at the reception of the creche. Comments will be taken into account by the store manager.

One young girl has written a letter to the creche with the hope that she will be able to continue playing there while her parents go shopping.

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

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

Customers can express their opinions directly to the Store Manager or a member of the management team.

The store manager was not able to comment about the creche's possible closure at this stage of negotiation.

Customers can call Safeway on (01325) 465915.