THORNTONS has announced it is set to leave Weston High Street before the summer.

The long-term future of the chocolate retailer has been in doubt for several months as it was expected to leave the town centre.

And the shop has now placed signs in its windows announcing it will close down on May 11.

Thorntons revealed in 2011 plans to close 180 outlets nationwide during a three-year-period.

It is the latest in a string of national chains to pull out of Weston, with Blockbuster announcing its departure on Monday.

* Tomorrow’s (Thurs) Mercury will have a special look at businesses in Weston as several firms have this week revealed their plans to stay or leave the town.