THE Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has asked shoppers for their views after opening an investigation into the purchase of the Harry Tuffins store chain by Midcounties Co-op.

Among other issues the investigation will look at whether the deal could result in a substantial lessening of competition for local shoppers.

There are Harry Tuffin stores at Lydney and Coleford as well as at Holywell, Cleobury Mortimer, Machynlleth, Ludlow, Bishops Castle, Knighton, Churchstoke and Craven Arms.

Shoppers concerned about the impact of the takeover are invited to submit their views to the OFT's investigation team before Friday (May 18) by emailing [email protected]">[email protected]