HOPES one of Crowborough's largest empty shops may be filled were quashed this week as it was revealed that a sign in the window of the former Woolworths store was just advertising.

The appearance of a poster inside the window of the shop from chain store M&Co sparked rumours the clothing retailer was moving in.

But this week the company, which already has a premises in the town, said it had no plans to take over and was merely advertising.

The poster has prompted local retailers to ask fresh questions about the large shop in the heart of the town and when a new business will fill it nearly six months after its closure.

Spokesman for planning authority Wealden District Council Jim Van den Bos said there had been "no approaches" about the site on the High Street.

Lizzie Brind, owner of The Hair Gallery, and recently- opened clothes shop Wardrobe, said: "I think a lot of people talk about the empty building and it would be great to see something there.

"A lot of people do miss Woolworths, I must say."

Jim Cro, owner of WE Cro and Sons, said: "As a retailer we would love to see all the shops in the town taken if they lay empty for so long.

"It was only five months ago.

"There are other shops that have been empty for a heck of a lot longer than that."

He added: "We would love to see somebody come in, the sooner the better from Crowborough's point of view."