STAFF AT the Woolworths store on Perth High Street were visited by Perth and North Perthshire MP Pete Wishart yesterday.

He spoke to manager Keith Roberts about the concerns that he and his fellow employees have and also discussed the future of the store.

Mr Wishart, who was accompanied by MSP Roseanna Cunningham, said, “Woolworths in Perth employs 42 people and most are from the local area. Staff are understandably anxious at this time of uncertainty for Woolworths, especially so in the run up to Christmas.

“I remain hopeful that a rescue package that will safeguard jobs can be found. Woolworths has a large presence as part of Perth’s retail sector and the loss of such an outlet would have a direct impact on the city centre’s economy.

“I am planning to visit Perthshire’s other Woolworths store in Blairgowrie later on this week.

“This is yet more evidence of the problems that are facing businesses, large and small, with the looming recession. I hope that a way forward can be found for these Perthshire employees.”

Mr Wishart also met the president of Perthshire Chamber of Commerce, Mike Beale, to talk about the economic situation in Perthshire in light of last week’s Pre Budget Report.

The financial pressures faced by businesses and individuals in the current climate was highlighted during the meeting.