Staff at Sidmouth's Boots stores are at risk of redundancy after the company announced today that it will cutting 4,000 jobs and closing 48 Boots Opticians stores.

Boots UK says it is 'taking decisive action to mitigate the significant impact that Covid-19 has had on the business'.

Nub News contacted Boots UK this afternoon to ask about the future of Sidmouth's Boots stores on Fore Street and Woolbrook Road but we were told further information would be forthcoming soon.

Boots remained open throughout the lock down to provide communities with vital pharmacy and healthcare services.

However, footfall into Boots stores dramatically reduced, and its revenue-driving beauty and fragrance counters were closed.

A spokesperson for Boots UK said: "Boots has announced today the start of a consultation process for a significant restructuring across its head office, store teams and Opticians teams, resulting in a reduction of its headcount of more than 4,000 (7 per cent of the workforce), and the closure of 48 Boots Opticians stores.

"As the further effects of the pandemic become known and macroeconomic conditions evolve, Boots will continue to review and progress its Transformation Plan.

"The Boots pharmacy business continues to serve at the heart of communities across the UK, and its patient and customer satisfaction scores are at the highest levels ever.

"With further continued investment in digital and online pharmacy and retail services, Boots will provide new ways for patients to receive even more access to its trusted pharmacy care and advice."

Sebastian James, managing director, Boots UK, said: "The proposals announced today are decisive actions to accelerate our Transformation Plan, allow Boots to continue its vital role as part of the UK health system, and ensure profitable long-term growth. In doing this, we are building a stronger and more modern Boots for our customers, patients and colleagues.

"I am so very grateful to all our colleagues for their dedication during the last few challenging months. They have stepped forward to support their communities, our customers and the NHS during this time, and I am extremely proud to be serving alongside them.

"We recognise that today's proposals will be very difficult for the remarkable people who make up the heart of our business, and we will do everything in our power to provide the fullest support during this time."