Councillors will debate a motion tomorrow calling on them to lobby Sainsbury's over the proposed closure of its supermarket in Gloucester city centre.

The retail chain announced earlier this month that the Northgate Street would close after 50 years of trading.

It prompted a strong reaction in the city and Councillor Jeremy Hilton, who represents the Kingsholm and Wotton ward on Gloucester City Council, has tabled the motion in an attempt to keep the shop open.

Mr Hilton said: "We are asking the city council to back our campaign. It is an extra special supermarket.

"I worked there as a teenager and still use the store regularly, as do many Kingsholm residents. It would be a great loss to the community if it were to close."

The motion will ask the full council to "do all it can to stop the supermarket's closure by persuading J Sainsbury PLC to keep it open".

Liberal Democrats, who are led by Mr Hilton on the council, have written to the chief executive of Sainsbury's about the closure and more than 500 people have signed a petition by Dr Rebecca Trimnell, the party's parliamentary candidate at the last election.

She said: The Sainsbury's store is the only decent size supermarket left in the city centre and is well used by a loyal group of shoppers.

"There are other supermarkets in the city centre, but they are a lot smaller and do not stock the range of goods that Sainsbury's offers.

"For older people or those who do not have a car, this store is a vital lifeline for the community living close to the city centre.

"The only other choice is going to a large out of town supermarket, which could be difficult if you don't drive."