A POPULAR health and beauty store in Greenock has closed exactly two years after it first opened.

Savers in the Oak Mall has shut down, in what is a fresh blow for the town's indoor shopping centre.

The shop opened in February 2019 but within the past week the shutters have come down.

The health, beauty and home store had been trading up until lockdown came into effect, as it was classed as an essential retailer in line with the Scottish Government's guidelines.

The closure now leaves two side by side units in the shopping centre vacant, after the neighbouring Clarks closed its doors last week to the dismay of customers.

It is not known how many staff have been made redundant or lost their jobs as a result of the move.

One passer-by said the store's sign was taken down at the end of last week.

The man, who did not want to be named, said: "Workers were in clearing the stock and removing the sign.

"It's a shame as it seemed to be a popular shop.

"This whole side of the town is just slowly disappearing."

Another customer told the Tele: "I really liked Savers and always found the staff to be very friendly and helpful.

"I'll miss coming in."

The Oak Mall and Savers were approached by the Telegraph for comment but failed to respond as we went to press.

The centre has suffered a string of closures in recent years as it is hit by the decline of the high street, online shopping and then the pandemic.

Bosses managed to hold on to Holland and Barrett late last year after the chain performed a u-turn on a decision to shut.

The health food store agreed a deal to sign a new lease to remain following negotiations with Mall management.