We still care, says mother

Praise goes to shop staff as branch closes

Ashford mums have spoken of their disappointment over the forthcoming closure of a town centre mother and baby care shop.

The Kentish Express revealed last month that Mothercare and the Early Learning Centre, in County Square, will shut up shop on Tuesday, March 7, after more than 40 years of trading in the shopping centre.

The company embarked on a plan to close a quarter of its 170 shops in 2014 and officials said the Ashford branch was part of its transformation plans.

But local mothers say they are devastated at Ashford’s loss.

Belinda Jeal, 42, is a mother of one who said she had been using the County Square shop three or four times a week since her threeyear-old daughter, Eliza-Rose, was born.

She said: “It has become a second home to us since my daughter was born and a little before when I was pregnant with her.

“The staff in there are the most lovely bunch and I am heartbroken to see them go.

“I buy most of my daughter’s toys, clothes and essentials like car seats so I’m a bit cross we won’t be able to click ’n’ collect – unless we get a train to Canterbury, which is not really cost efficient.”

Ms Jeal, who lives near the town centre with her fiance Daren Payne, said the branch’s breastfeeding room was regularly used.

She added: “As a first-time mum I found the breastfeeding room and changing area a godsend as I was quite shy at first.

“The staff always give such a helpful, personal service and it’s so disappointing that mums will miss out on that.”

Mark Newton-Jones, Mothercare chief executive, said the focus of the business was now geared towards out-of-town retail stores and online services rather than town centre locations.

Abi Hutchinnson, spokesman for the company, said Ashford customers would be emailed about the changes and given details of the nearest store – which is in Canterbury, 14 miles away.

She said: “We greatly value all our customers in the local area and would like to thank them for their continued loyalty.

“While we regret the closure, it is part of a larger transformation plan for our business.”

What do you think? Write to Kentish Express, 34-36 North Street, Ashford, TN24 8JR or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk

Belinda Jeal and her daughter, Eliza-Rose, three. Right, Mothercare today and in 1976, a year after its opening