CRICKHOWELL was transformed into a whirlwind of rage after it emerged the town's precious 'indie' High Street was under threat from corporate big boys.

Within hours whispers of concern were amplified to full-blown cries of rebellion when it was confirmed the Corn Exchange pub could become a convenience store run by a national chain.

In just 48 hours nearly 2,000 residents, traders and visitors had united in their opposition to the proposal by signing a petition.

They are all anxious to preserve Crickhowell's rare and treasured status as a place virtually untainted by household trading names which dominate similar commercial centres.

More than 150 banner-waving protestors gathered outside the Corn Exchange to register their opposition to pub chain Punch Taverns' application to shut the inn and open a convenience store.

They are not naming the shop involved - but speculation is rife that it may be the Co-op who have struck similar deals with the firm before.

The Co-op would not confirm or deny their interest in the future of 54 High Street.

A spokesman for The Co-operative Food arm of the business said on Monday, "We have a clear vision to become the UK's number one convenience retailer and, over the coming years, our main focus will be to develop our existing convenience store estate."

He added, "We are aware of a site in the Abergavenny area, but cannot comment on specific properties at this time."

In a statement Punch Taverns have already revealed they have submitted an application for the Corn Exchange to become a retail unit.

Punch are said to be in 'advanced negotiations" with the mystery retailer.

Emma Corfield-Waters, who runs the Book-ish Bookshop in Crickhowell, is a spokesman for the action group fighting the switch - Totally Locally Crickhowell.

She said, "We have one of the last remaining independent High Streets in Wales, along with Narberth, Mumbles and Cowbridge. We don't want to lose it now.'

She was dumbfounded by the rush of support from people anxious to preserve Crickhowell's distinctive identity.

"It really has brought the town together. A lot of people feel very strongly about the proposals," she said, adding that just a handful of people had expressed support for the change.

Objections to the scheme, or support, has to be lodged with Brecon Beacons National Park planners by April 21.

A measure of the town's concern about the venture is likely to be reflected in the heavy turn-out for Wednesday night's public meeting on the issue at the Clarence Hall.