THE manager of Debenhams Weymouth says the store has a strong future in the town centre despite the national retailer issuing a post-Christmas profits warning.

Craig Tizard said the national picture will have ‘no implications’ on the New Bond Street shop’s future in the town. He said: “There is no risk to us.”

The company lowered its profit outlook earlier this week after a hoped-for surge in last-minute Christmas shopping failed to materialise.

Debenhams chief financial officer Simon Herrick quit the retailer 48 hours later.

Mr Tizard said the store, one of the largest in Weymouth town centre, was busy with shoppers in both the Boxing Day and New Year sales and sales were up compared to last year.

He said: “It has been a good week and all the customers were in good spirits. It’s been really positive.”