CAMPAIGNERS will stage a protest outside a new Tesco Express store this Saturday (December 12) - calling on shoppers to boycott its goods.

Members of Redbridge Green Party and others opposed to the imminent opening of the branch in Wanstead High Street (which is now due on Wednesday, December 16) will demonstrate outside the site from 11am until 1pm.

Ashley Gunstock, of Cranbourne Avenue, Wanstead - who led an unsuccessful campaign to prevent the store receiving an alcohol licence - said a boycott was essential in order to protect the area's small, independent shops.

He said: "Tesco (will open) their store in Wanstead against the wishes of many residents and local shop keepers.

"Wanstead has a thriving high street with a large variety of shops but this is threatened by Tesco who are seeking to dominate the market.

"Within a couple of miles or so, there are Tesco stores in Leytonstone, Leyton, Lea Bridge Road, South Woodford, Woodford, Hoe Street, Walthamstow, Maryland and Forest Gate.

"We need to protect our high street from becoming another clone town with the same chain shops.

"Help keep Wanstead special and take action against Tesco where it will hurt by not spending money in their store - and support our local shops."

Tesco has yet to comment on the planned protest.