Debenhams has moved to deny rumours that its new Ashford store is to close after Christmas.

It follows widespread rumours that Debenhams is either closing or moving to a smaller unit elsewhere in town.

Debenhams bosses have confirmed that there is no truth in any of the rumours. And the store’s manager has felt compelled to write to the Kentish Express after receiving countless questions “almost on a daily basis” about its future.

In the letter, store manager Simon Fagg said: “We love being in Ashford and people keep asking us if we are closing after Christmas. We are not and have no intention of closing.”

Debenhams opened in March as part of the County Square shopping centre extension.

After a bright start, the store soon found itself in gloomy economic times which meant shoppers cut their spending and retailers, such as Debenhams, slashed their prices.

But despite many retailers struggling, spokesman for Debenhams Ed Watson was upbeat about the Ashford department store.

He said: “We are pleased with the way the store is performing.”