BOOTS has announced plans to cut more than 4,000 jobs as part of action to mitigate the "significant impact" of Covid-19.

The pharmacy chain has branches in Bebington, Birkenhead, Bromborough, Moreton and West Kirby. At this stage it is not yet known whether these are among the 48 stores facing closure.

A spokesperson for the company said the move will affect around 7% of the company’s workforce and particularly staff in its Nottingham support office.

It will also affect some deputy and assistant manager, beauty adviser and customer adviser roles across its stores.

The restructuring will also result in the closure of 48 Boots Opticians stores.

It follows a turbulent time, with retail sales tumbling by 48% over the past three months in the face of the pandemic. 

Sebastian James, managing director of Boots UK, said: "The proposals announced today are decisive actions to accelerate our transformation plan, allow Boots to continue its vital role as part of the UK health system, and ensure profitable long-term growth.

"I am so very grateful to all our colleagues for their dedication during the last few challenging months.

"They have stepped forward to support their communities, our customers and the NHS during this time, and I am extremely proud to be serving alongside them.”

"In doing this, we are building a stronger and more modern Boots for our customers, patients and colleagues.

"We recognise that today’s proposals will be very difficult for the remarkable people who make up the heart of our business, and we will do everything in our power to provide the fullest support during this time."