Staff at a North East Wilko store that will close its doors forever at the end of this week have penned a heartfelt sign to thank their customers for their support.

Darlington's Wilko staff members have taped a heartfelt thank you note to the window of the store on East Street ahead of their closure date on Sunday, September 24.

The sign reads: "Thank you to all of our loyal customers. We will miss you. Love from Darlington 127 staff."

Read more: Wilko to close 111 more stores across the UK next week

The Northern Echo: Wilko staff's heartfelt sign.Wilko staff's heartfelt sign. (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

A small flower chain displaying the names of many of the staff members has been drawn alongside them.

Wilko's store in Killingworth, North Tyneside will also close on Sunday, with seven more to follow just two days later.

This comes after the retail giant announced they were going into administration in August, leaving 12,000 jobs at risk.

Some 71 stores will close nationally but will be re-branded by fellow discount shop Poundland.

Here's a reminder of when all the stores in the North East will close their doors.

The Northern Echo: Darlington Wilko.Darlington Wilko. (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

Tuesday, September 26

  • Alnwick, Northumberland
  • Arnison-Durham, Durham, County Durham
  • Blyth, Northumberland
  • Chester Le Street, County Durham
  • Hartlepool, County Durham
  • South Shields, Tyne and Wear
  • Thornaby, North Yorkshire

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Thursday, September 28

  • Northallerton, North Yorkshire