TWO big high street names have left Bournemouth town centre in a blow to the local economy.

Miss Selfridge, which is located in between Debenhams and Clarks in Commercial Road in the town centre, has placed posters in the cleared out unit directing shoppers to its store at Castlepoint Shopping Centre.

The shop's signage has also been taken down.

A spokesman for the fashion retailer Arcadia Group, which owns the Miss Selfridge brand, said the store closed because the lease had come to an end.

And just a few doors away, retail giant Next will also be closing its doors early in the New Year.

Signs in the shop window confirm that the shop next to Boots in The Square will be closed from 6.30pm on Saturday, January 7.

The signs are also directing shoppers to the firm's Castlepoint branch.

One shopper, Lisa Leadbetter, 43, from Bournemouth town centre, said: "We usually shop in Boscombe so that we can go in Primark.

"They are closing all the big names. We always come out to the shops, rather than going online, as you can't see what you're buying.

"Plus, we ordered presents for the children back in November and they have still not arrived."

Another shopper, Mair Munday, 63, from Boscombe, said: "I didn't know that Next was closing until I went in there, but I normally only go in there for sales. I normally shop at Castlepoint.

"However, it's a bit of a shock for it to be shutting and I don't really understand why, given the good location."

Cllr Dave Smith, who represents the Bournemouth Central ward on Bournemouth Council, said: "It is always disappointing to see well-known stores close in our high street and town centre.

"However, I am positive that other retailers will be keen to take on such a prominent position and I look forward to seeing a new offering opening soon."