Kidderminster Wilko closed for the final time this week

The Kidderminster branch was one of 37 stores that shut for the final time on Tuesday (September 26) after rescue bids failed.

Kim Shepherd, 60, who has worked at Wilko since 1998, said: “I’m really sad that it’s come to this. It’s been a lovely company to work for and all the staff get on really well.

“We love our customers and it’ll be sad never seeing them again. We’re like a big family.”

Shop assistants Julie Thombs (left) and Sally Maiden (right) (Image: NQ)

The store was packed with customers after all stock went to 70% off followed by 80% after 2pm. A further 50% and 80% additional discount was also applied between 4pm and 6pm.

Jess Bennett, 33, who was assistant manager at the branch for seven years, said: “I half expected it to be busy, but when the discounts dropped it was manic.

“I’ve been at Wilko for 15 years, but it’s not just about losing our jobs, we’ll miss the staff and customers that have supported us through the years.

“We also have Kidderminster College opposite and Iceland next door so the closure will have a big impact.”

Read more: Wilko staff sing and dance in emotional goodbye

Jess Bennett was assistant manager at the Kidderminster branch for seven years (Image: NQ)

Shoppers also came to wish staff luck with many unsure about what could replace the store.

Loyal customer Marion Jones, 65, said: I’ve been coming here for almost 30 years, and I’ve always had excellent service. The staff are a credit to this community.

“I think it’ll be an empty shop with the way the town’s going. This is one of the only stores I still visit, so it really is the end of an era. I’m absolutely gutted.”

The remaining Wilko shops are all set to close by Sunday, October 8.

B&M and Poundland have bought some stores, but around 200 shops remain unaccounted for as administrators PwC complete the process.