Shopkeepers in Wallingford who found out about plans to demolish their premises just days before Christmas have received an apology.

Some shopkeepers had no idea that Co-op Group Property intended to sell their sites for housing, until they were contacted by the Oxford Mail.

The Manchester company, which is the property arm of co-operative societies nationwide, submitted plans to South Oxfordshire District Council to knock down the present Waitrose building which it owns in St Martin's Street to make way for housing.

The Co-op has now apologised for keeping shopkeepers in the dark about the plan, which also affects Brooking Travel, Blockbuster video and Care dry cleaners.

But it has not cooled the traders' anger and they have vowed to fight the plans.

Nick Treadaway, of Care, said: "The Co-op has now apologised for leaving us in the dark, but we're still determined to oppose this plan with everything we've got.

"We've traded in Wallingford for 30 years and we intend staying.

"Nobody needs these houses. A market town like Wallingford needs shops and that is what should stay.

"Waitrose itself must stay a store, preferably a cheaper supermarket, or even an indoor market. But whatever happens, the Co-op has a fight on its hands."

Phil Edwards, of Co-op Group Properties said: "We do not think the demand for retail outlets will be there once the new Waitrose is built."

Wallingford Town Council will debate the issue at the town hall on January 6.