MORE than 2,000 people have signed a petition against plans for out-of-town supermarkets.

Leek Chamber of Trade and Commerce has backed a 'Save Our Leek' campaign opposing proposals by Sainsbury's and Tesco to build stores on the outskirts of the town.

Chamber members have been canvassing support from town centre shoppers and claim they have received strong support.

And they have now called on residents to make their views known to council planners.

Members are also urging council chiefs to consider an alternative retail development in the Compton Mill area to link up with a proposed new complex at Pickwood Road.

A spokesman said: "Having reviewed the council's masterplan, we feel the best site would be Compton Mill with a pedestrian bridge to Pickwood.

"We hope that many people take a proactive stance by contacting the planning department stating that they feel the proposals will have a negative impact on the town."

The 'Save Our Leek' campaign staged its second meeting this week.

It was launched by Richard Wilson, pictured, a cashier at the Bridge End garage, in Macclesfield Road, near to the proposed Sainsbury's site.

The 49-year-old from Spring Gardens, said: "We believe that there are other sites which could be looked at."

Sainsbury's has applied to Staffordshire Moorlands District Council for a store on the Churnet Works site off Macclesfield Road.

Tesco still has its sights set on land off Buxton Road, even though it has been bought by a housing developer.