SUPERMARKET giant Tesco says the public reaction to its plans for a new store in Southwold is one of the most positive it has ever had.

The company sent 1,100 letters to residents in the town asking for views on its proposal to open a new Tesco Express store at the former Co-op site in Queen Street.

Letters were sent to all homes close to the site, asking people if they would welcome the store. Tesco said that of 155 respondents, 144 (93pc) were in favour.

Tesco spokesman Carol Leslie said: 'We are absolutely delighted with the results. I think this is the best response we have ever had from local people. People have really got behind us on our proposals and the feedback has been fantastic.It is evident people really need a food store here.

'Southwold is a lovely town with lots of good quality independent traders. We know from speaking to local people that there is a strong sense of pride and loyalty to these shops. Our aim is to complement existing shops and continue to provide the variety, choice and service the town is renowned for.'

Plans have been submitted to the council for the store, which is smaller than larger Tesco supermarkets and proposes to stock a 'broad but carefully selected range of essential products'.

Guy Mitchell, chairman of Southwold's Chamber of Trade, said: 'We are not against having a second supermarket in the town and we are pleased not to be facing the threat of an out-of-town development.

'We believe it is up to the consumer to shop sensibly and continue to support local industry.'