SINCE its opening, the Richmond Friary Co-op supermarket has been controversial. The announcement of its closure continues to court controversy (Echo, Oct 21).

For an ethical organisation like the Co-op to announce a closure of a store and the redundancy of its staff so close to Christmas is disgraceful.

This store is a lifeline to many of the older residents in Richmond (particularly with its delivery service). I feel that Lidl is unlikely to provide the range, quality or ethical stance of the Co-op.

Previous poor management at the store contributed to its slow decline. However, recently the store was starting to turn round and people have realised that Tesco at Catterick Garrison is no longer the bargain that it appeared to be. The real problem is possibly more to do with the issues of the Co-operative Bank and of the Co-op as a whole.

The difference between the Co-op and Tesco (and Lidl) is that the Co-op is owned by its members.

I have already contacted the Co-op expressing my views.

Whether you are a supporter of the Co-op in Richmond or not I would ask residents and Co-op members to sign the online petition I’ve started at goo.gl/QyM8lZ

Philip Knowles, Eppleby