A DISCOUNT clothing store in Southend High Street has closed unexpectedly.

The former Madhouse shop, at the junction with Clifftown Road, was empty yesterday morning.

Even the shop sign had been removed and the only evidence of the former occupier was one sticker in a window advertising the company’s internet-based business.

Staff in shops opposite said Madhouse workers were told on Friday of the closure and the stock and signs were moved out on Saturday.

There are now eight empty shops in the High Street.

Dawn Jeakings is chairman of the Town Centre Partnership, an independent network of town centre businesses.

She said: “It is very unfortunate another store has to close, but I suspect the reasons were probably beyond the retailer’s control.

“But it is still sad another employer and retailer bringing business to the town has to close.

“However, there are signs the retail business is starting to recover and in the Royals, businesses are showing increased sales when compared to last year’s figures.”

Ian Robertson, Southend councillor responsible for enterprise, tourism and regeneration, said: “I agree it’s very sad to see it go and it’s very hard to develop the High Street while conditions in the recession are so tough.

“But I’m very committed to breathing new life into the High Street even while money is so tight.”

Madhouse did not respond to calls from the Echo yesterday.

* Did you work at the shop? Give Mike Miners a call on 01702 321143.