A LEIGH supermarket is to close in the New Year with the loss of 63 jobs, it has been revealed.

But some staff at the Pioneer Co-op store may be redeployed to other local branches.

The Co-op announced yesterday that the Ellesmere Street store will close on January 13 -- after months of speculation -- when 11 full-time and 52 part-time workers will lose their jobs.

A spokesman for the retail shopping group said: "The two closest stores are in Golborne and Higher Fold and we may redeploy some staff there. But unfortunately large numbers will not be placed there because they are smaller stores.

"We will be discussing the future with staff over the next few weeks."

The Co-op announced in June it hoped to sell the 26,000 sq ft store as a going concern but no offers were forthcoming and they now intend to sell the property.

"Every effort was made to sell the business and secure employment for our staff but our approaches to potential purchasers were unsuccessful," added the spokesman.

"The closure decision was taken with the greatest regret but we will endeavour to redeploy staff where possible and assistance will be provided to help people obtain alternative employment."

Leigh acting store manager Kevin Chapman refused to comment about the closure.

But a concerned employee, who did not wish to be named, said: "I don't know what's going to happen to me in January. Staff are being asked if they want to be redeployed and how far they are prepared to travel.

"Everyone is very upset as you can imagine. There are a lot of people who have been here for a number of years."

The in-store branch of Travelcare, the Co-operative travel agency, will be temporarily transferred to the Bradshawgate, Leigh, branch while plans are finalised to open new "flagship" travel premises in the town. The three staff will be redeployed.

The Co-op has admitted that a number of parties have already expressed interest in buying the building.