A TOWN centre Christmas trading shock struck Wellington with an announcement that one of the longest standing national chains is pulling out.

The former WH Smith stationers and book store, which was rebranded only five months ago in August as TG Jones, will close by January 6.

Staff in the Fore Street shop were only told the news on Friday, December 19, when they were offered an opportunity to transfer to the company’s Taunton store.

The store is currently offering a 75 per cent discount on most items as it runs down stock before the impending closure.

The rebranding as TG Jones followed the £52 million purchase by Modella Capital of most of the WH Smith high street stores.

WH Smith, which has traded in Britain for 230 years, kept is brand name along with more than 1,000 stores located in airports, railway stations, and hospital sites, and internationally.

Modella, which bought Hobbycraft in 2023, said at the time of the takeover it would be ‘business as usual’ for its Wellington shop while changes were introduced.

A spokesperson said at the time: “Our approach focusses on allowing management teams to lead the way, with our advice and direction always on hand.”

The Wellington Weekly has approached Modella for comment on the closure.