THERE are "no planned closures" for any Boots stores in Wales, says MP Chris Davies.

The Brecon and Radnorshire MP says he is "very pleased" to learn that the stores will remain open following talks with the Mid Wales Regional Manager.

There are seven Boots stores in Powys, including in Welshpool, Newtown, Llandrindod Wells, Builth Wells and Knighton.

It follows the announcement from the owner of the pharmacy chain warning that it was looking to slash costs.

Walgreens Boots Alliance said they had experienced the "most difficult" quarter in the group's history.

"In recent days there has been much speculation about Boots store closures in Powys," Chris Davies MP said.

"I have been corresponding with the Mid Wales Regional Manager for Boots and they have confirmed there are no planned closures for any of their stores in Wales.

"I have not commented on the speculation in recent days until I found out the full facts from Boots. I am very pleased with this news as these stores are vital for rural towns here in Brecon and Radnorshire."

A Boots spokesperson said: “We currently do not have a major programme envisaged, but as you'd expect we always review underperforming stores and seek out opportunities for consolidation."

He added: "With over 2,500 stores across the UK, we have a very specific role that we play in many local communities – we have more than 2,000 pharmacies, and healthcare of the national/community pharmacy is a massive part of who we are and what we do."