OPPONENTS of a new Tesco Express store have vowed to continue their fight to stop the branch 'destroying local shops' after launching a boycott campaign on Saturday.

Campaigners demonstrated outside the unfinished store in Wanstead High Street, calling on shoppers not to buy its goods in order to protect the business of the area's independent traders.

The group, which was led by Waltham Forest and Redbridge Green Party, handed out leaflets warning of the negative impact they claim the branch - which is due to open on Saturday, December 19 - will have on the High Street.

Ashley Gunstock, who led an unsuccessful campaign to stop the store getting an alcohol licence during the summer, said: "We are urging the people of Wanstead to boycott Tesco - which we believe will have a negative impact on the High Street - and continue to support their local traders.

"Tesco may claim that it is giving people greater choice but, wherever Tesco opens, local shops are often put out of business and the result, more often than not, becomes a choice of one - Tesco.

However judging by the support that we are receiving from local residents, as well as from traders, we believe that Tesco will not be getting things all its own way."

a Tesco spokeswoman said: "This is an excellent site within a High Street location.

"Not only will it cater for people shopping in the town but is extremely convenient for residents living nearby who have no transport or those preferring to shop on foot.

"We think it will compliment existing traders by acting as an anchor and keeping people shopping in the area, instead of driving to other areas.

"Our experience has shown that Express stores can actually boost local trade and have a positive effect as they attract more people to the area which can benefit other shops and services.

"An area can only continue to prosper and attract new customers when it provides variety, choice and the services of different retailers.

"There are people in Wanstead who would appreciate the offer and benefits that an Express would bring to the area and our stores are very much part of the local community they serve.

"While we believe there is a demand for the store, ultimately it is the shoppers and the test of time that determine whether a shop is successful or not."