A WOMEN'S clothes store in Abergavenny has been saved from closure by its new owners.

Bonmarché, was part of the Peacocks Group that went into administration in January after its parent company failed to restructure its £240m debt.

The Bonmarché chain was then bought from the administrators in a rescue deal by private equity group Sun European Partners, who went on to announce plans to close 160 stores and keep 230 open.

Now staff at Abergavenny's Bonmarché store are celebrating as the new management has confirmed that the store is to remain open and their jobs have been safeguarded.

A statement read, "Staff at Bonmarché in Abergavenny are pleased to announce their store is one of 230 stores to remain open under new owners Sun European Partners.

The store in Abergavenny will continue to employ ten full-and part-time members of staff."

And in a celebratory mood the store is collaborating with St Mary's Priory Church to hold a spring fashion show at the Priory Centre to raise funds for the church on Tuesday March 6 at 7.30pm.

Liz Jones, store manager in Abergavenny, said: "Staff are thrilled at the news that we are remaining open. We would like to extend a special thanks to all of our customers for their support and messages of encouragement over the last few weeks."?

Tickets for the fashion show are priced at £8, which includes a glass of wine, and are available from the Tithe Barn on 01873 858787.