The Central England Co-op is to transfer its travel branch in Oakham to Midcounties Co-op.

The move comes as the company has made a deal with Midcounties Co-op to transfer other branches and close some of its other branches.

A spokesman for Central England Co-op said: "The Society can now announce that it intends to enter into an agreement with Midcounties Co-operative to transfer 16 of its travel agencies into Midcounties successful Travel business.

"The two Societies have a longstanding and positive relationship, with Central England recently joining Midcounties travel buying consortium following the demise of Thomas Cook.

"The coming together of the two businesses will enable the continuation of a Co-operative travel offer for our members and customers and the continued employment for a number of colleagues.

"Regretfully it is proposed to close the remaining eight travel branches. All colleagues from these sites are now under consultation and, where possible, we are looking to offer them the opportunity to relocate into other areas of our business. "

"The decision was not taken lightly, and we would like to thank all staff for their commitment and dedication during their time with the Society. A date for the proposed completion of transfers and closures has yet to be confirmed."