Directors of HJ Knee have praised the hard work of their staff who are leaving the company ahead of the business’ relocation to the Spitfire Retail Park.

In December, Knees announced plans to leave its home of 130 years in Fore Street, as well as its nearby electricals store, to open a new shop at the centre, in Bradley Road.

The store had asked their 50 staff whether they’d like to relocate or take redundancy. This week, staff learnt their fate and the Wiltshire Times understands nine staff took voluntary redundancy with a further six taking compulsory redundancy.

Jonathan Knee, property and business director, said: “A number of the staff who don’t want to go to the new store have said they are happy to help us for as long as they are needed.”

Mr Knee said that the compulsory redundancy staff have been put on gardening leave while they serve out their notice periods and that Knees will help them as they look to find new employment.

Mr Knee said: “I would like to say how highly valued all our staff have been and we look forward to seeing those leaving us again in the future. We will look to help them as much as we can.”

Knees has yet to confirm the date of its move but the company has been working with property consultant Sanderson Weatherall to find suitable occupants for its town centre premises.