THE Ann Summers store in Taunton town centre has been saved from closure after an 11th hour deal was thrashed out with the landlord.

The adult lingerie and bedroom toy outlet had been due to shut on Saturday, March 7.

But it is now remaining open and the six members of staff have kept their jobs.

Karina Shaw, who has managed the Fore Street shop for eight years, said: "We're really happy.

"The staff have kept their jobs and none of them are facing redundancy.

"We wanted to stay and the store is quite a successful one. But the rents and rates are quite high.

"Head office have been working really hard with the landlord to get a new deal put in place.

"It went down to the last minute as we were into a six-week closure programme."

Closing down posters which had gone up in the premises' windows last month have now been taken down.

They have been replaced with a note to customers saying: "We are happy to say we are staying open!!!

"After weeks of going through closure, a deal has been agreed.

"Thank you to all the loyal customers who have shown such support to the team. Ann Summers team X."