The demise of Toys R Us in Bradford has begun with the start of a closing down sale at the store in Manningham Retail Park.

In December, the store confirmed it was closing 25 stores around the country, one of which was the Bradford-based outlet which opened late in 2010.

Also going is Babies R Us, which is incorporated inside.

Last month, Toys ‘R’ Us UK announced plans to transform the business to meet the evolving needs of customers in today’s UK retail market. By instigating a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA), the company sought creditor approval to reposition its real estate portfolio for future growth and profitability.

The closures are understood to mean between 500 and 800 job losses throughout the UK.

The beleaguered retailer’s proposal for a CVA won the approval of 98 per cent of creditors just before Christmas, including the backing of the Pension Protection Fund.

Katie Timmins, Store Manager at Toys ‘R’ Us Bradford said: “There are plenty of bargains to be had in store, everything is now reduced by up to 30 per cent on shelf price. Due to such fast moving demand, please hurry before all the stock is gone”.

However, when the Telegraph & Argus called into the store yesterday, the car park was almost empty and there were only around 10 shoppers inside.

One Woman, who had been into Babies R Us to collect a pram, said: “I only came here because I had a pram on order. I wouldn’t normally come out here to shop because there is nothing else to come for. There used to be a pet shop, bed shop and shoe shop here along with the toy shop. Now all there is, is a gym.

“This Toys R Us is a huge store; supermarket size. I could imagine it being turned into a Lidl or something.”

Another shopper said she was sad it was closing.

“I use Toys R Us for all the toys I buy.”

Toys R Us said it planned to close in March or April this year.

The store at Gelderd Road, in Birstall, is remaining open.