The news of the problems facing the Wilko brand has cast a shadow over many high streets, but it is particularly troubling here in Bassetlaw as we are home to their headquarters and main distribution centre, as well as two shops.

As a result we have major concerns about the human aspects of this relating to the jobs, as well as the financial aspect in relation to business rates income, as well as the rent from one of the retail units.

As soon as news started to come out, we began to talk to partners about what support could be provided to the company as well as the locally based staff and supply chain, both to assist them through the uncertainty, but also in case the worst happened.