A TESCO superstore has closed down to be replaced by a new cut-price outlet.

Tesco in Rawtenstall closed on January 13 with 175 jobs affected by the closure.

It will be converted into a Jack's store - the new discount version of Tesco.

The retailer’s new chain was launched in September and now has seven stores up and down the country.

Cllr Alyson Barnes, leader of Rossendale council said officers have been in contact with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and Tesco to support affected workers.

She said: “It’s not a great way to start a new year.

"It is extremely distressing for workers involved.

"Since the news broke, council officers here have been in contact with the DWP as the local job centre are heavily involved and also Tesco as this council can offer a number of things to support those staff who live in the local area including organising placements through our employability project.

“The economic climate is very tough at the moment but jobs are being created in Rossendale so hopefully people will be able to find work should they wish in the local area quite quickly.

"We will continue to work with our partners to offer what support we can to mitigate the effects of this closure."