LOYAL customers hugged tearful staff who over the years had become friends as Woolworths closed its doors for the final time this weekend.

Many employees couldn't hide their emotion as they witnessed the end of the shop and the jobs they loved.

Angela Cummings of Fenton was comforted by shop regular Jeffrey Fitzgerald on the last day of trading at the Stoke branch.

The 37-year-old said: "I loved working here. The team are like family and we are encouraged to get on with the customers and get to know the regulars.

"This shop has been the heart of Stoke for a long time and it's devastating to see it go – it's such a shame. It's all happened so quickly and because it's been over Christmas, many of us haven't had a chance to look for any other work.

"I'm going to look into some Government-funded college courses and will try anything, but in the meantime we will all be tightening our belts.

"We are going out for a drink tonight to toast Woolies and say goodbye, though we will all stay in touch."

Mr Fitzgerald, aged 57, of Stoke, has bought his daily newspaper from the shop for 24 years and says the staff have all become friends.

He added: "I'm gutted – I'll really miss coming here. I've seen some staff grow up and had to come in today to try to comfort them and give them a hug as many are really upset."

Angela, who had worked at Woolworths for more than four years, is one of thousands across the country to lose their jobs after the famous high street name went into administration.

Colleague Rob Mole, aged 21, of Shelton, says he is struggling to find a new job and fears he will be unable to pay the bills.

He said: "I'm so sad to leave – it's a really friendly place to work and we're a close team. No-one is hiring at the moment and, as I'm the main breadwinner, it's very stressful wondering where the rent is coming from."

Managers at Burslem, Stoke and Stafford branches announced sales of up to 80 per cent off as bargain hunters cleared the shelves this weekend.

Other branches at Congleton, Leek, Longton, Market Drayton and Stone closed last week.

Regular customer Joyce Colbeck, of Joiners Square, said: "The staff were very friendly and helpful and always had time for you. It's a real shame and I feel very sorry for the staff."