A COMMUNITY leader has refuted claims made by a supermarket giant that a new store is supported by residents.

The spokesman for Tesco was speaking after the recent public exhibitions that took place in Manningtree on June 7 and 8 and in Lawford on June 14 and 15.

The exhibitions aimed to give residents a chance to view plans of the proposed Tesco store in Station Road, Manningtree, and to discuss their views and concerns with officials from the council and the supermarket chain.

A spokesman for Tesco said: "We are pleased with the level of attendance at both exhibitions. There was considerable support for the proposal and whilst some residents had specific concerns the exhibitions proved beneficial in informing people of the proposals, and in some cases helped to reassure them."

He added: "Tesco are waiting for Tendring Council to consider the relevant issues that may arise from the proposal and Tesco look forward to a decision being made later this summer."

However, the Mayor of Manningtree and the chairman of the parish council, Lee Lay-Flurrie, disagreed with the spokesman's comments.

Mrs Flurrie said: "I don't know where they got the idea from that all those people were in favour, its not the truth.

"I'm not saying everyone's against it as some people are in favour of it, we just think its wrong for Manningtree.

"I think the whole thing is wrong for Manningtree."