DIY giant B&Q is to close its stores in Pembroke Dock and Cardigan under plans to shut nine outlets across Wales, it has been announced.

The number of jobs to be lost and exact timescale is not yet known.

In March Kingfisher, the company that owns B&Q, revealed it was to undergo a major restructuring.

As a result, it would be closing 60 stores across the UK in the next two years, it said.

This week it has annouced that total will include nine here in Wales, and five in Northern Ireland.

Other Welsh stores affected include Aberystwyth, Cwmdu (Swansea), Deeside, Gorseinon, Neath, Cardiff, and Ebbw Vale.

Marc Tierney, Labour's Assembly Candidate for South Pembrokeshire said: “This is devastating news for employees of B&Q Pembroke Dock. 

“The decision by the Kingfisher group to close this store highlights just how fragile our local economy is - especially in an area where disposable income remains low. The UK Government in cutting tax credits for the lowest paid will only make that problem worse.

“B&Q is a destination store attracting footfall from a much wider area. It's closure will impact other local businesses as well as those directly employed. I know the Welsh Government will provide support to those workers who now face an uncertain employment future.”