A convenience store which is "much-valued" by the community has been closed suddenly.

The Co-op near Folkestone Central station shut last night for "essential maintenance to the flooring".

A spokesman from Co-op apologised for any inconvenience the closure could cause but has not given further details about what works are taking place.

"We are awaiting an update from our maintenance teams regarding any works that might be required," they said.

"The store has closed as a precaution for the floor to be assessed.

"It is too early to confirm when the store will be able to re-open to serve the community.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the store’s temporary closure."

Signs appeared in the windows of the store last night and John O'Hara, who says the store is much-valued, noticed newspapers piled outside the door this afternoon.

A sign in the window said: "Sorry we're not open as usual, our store is temporarily closed and will open again as soon as possible.

"Thank you for your patience."

Another sign states the next nearest Co-op is the Cheriton high street store.

There is no indication as to when the store could reopen.