THE FIRST Dorset Wilko has revealed when it will close following the brand’s dramatic collapse yesterday. 

Ferndown’s Wilko, in Victoria Road, will close its doors for the last time on Sunday, September 17 as part of the company’s wind-down. 

A sign put up in the store says: “It is with great regret and sadness that this store will be closing on Sunday, September 17. 

“We thank all our customers for your continued support during this difficult time. 

“Please respect all team members during this hard period. Please refrain from asking staff for more information and continue to support us. 

Read more: Wilko closures in BCP area will hit people 'pretty hard'

“Thank you for being a wonderful community, we’re sorry to see us go too.” 

Fears are now growing on what sort of impact this could have on footfall in Ferndown’s high street, in particular with the Wetherspoon pub Nightjar expected to close later this month. 

Cllr Mike Parkes, ward councillor for Ferndown North, said the closure will be a “huge loss” for his town, particularly with the Nightjar expected to close later this month.  

He said: “It brings in a lot of people to the town and Victoria Road and will reduce the footfall for other businesses.  

“It’s also terrible for the people who are losing their jobs and there is a potential knock-on effect for businesses in the surrounding area.  

“I’d like to see something else that’ll bring people back to Ferndown – the last thing we want is two empty units next to each other.” 

The closure date of the shops in Boscombe, Winton and Poole is not yet known.