Bargain-hunters strip shelves as Comet closes for final time

BARGAIN hunters left the shelves bare at Comet as the St Oswald's branch closed its doors for the last time yesterday.

The electrical superstore said goodbye to 27 workers, who were made redundant as it became one of the first casualties of the national chain's financial woes.

Shoppers flocked to the store, which opened in 2005, stripping it of all its TVs and computers, leaving only a smattering of washing machines, fridges and small accessories for the taking on Monday.

Hucclecote resident Matheos Matheou got all in a spin when his washing machine broke down yesterday, but a 30% discount meant he bagged a new one today for just £180.

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The 41-year-old said: "Finding this bargain came at just the right time as our old machine broke down last night.

"I did think it was a shame though walking around the store to see what has happened.

"It is just the latest victim of what's happening to our economy.

"There was little to be found on the shelves and what was left only had a modest discount of 30%, but this was still better than in the other Comet store where the washing machines only had 10 per cent off."

Margaret and David Harvey travelled from the Forest of Dean and came away with discounted printer paper and inks.

But another shopper said he walked away empty-handed after being unable to find anything of interest left in the shop. The future of the Comet store at Metz Way remains in the balance as administrators Deloitte continue to search for a buyer for the remaining stores.

The closure of the St Oswald's store was echoed across the country, with another 40 branches earmarked for closure before the end of November.

Chris Farrington, from Deloitte, paid tribute to hundreds of workers who have lost their jobs. He said: "We are very grateful to the company's employees for their professionalism, loyalty and support.

"Discussions continue to take place with parties who have expressed interest in parts of the business.

"However, it is unfortunately necessary to begin a store closure programme."

The chain went into administration on November 2 but concerns surrounding its finances had been circulating for months, since investment firm OpCapita bought the store for a nominal £2 in February.