CUSTOMERS today hit out at shop bosses who closed a high street opticians -- leaving many people hundreds of pounds out of pocket.

Super-Specs in Broadway, Accrington, closed its doors two weeks ago without any warning.

One shopper, Phillip Holden, 50, of Somerset Road, Rishton, has lost a pair of £200 glasses which were being repaired.

He has been back to the shop every day for the last two weeks in an attempt to reclaim them.

Mr Holden, who works as a caretaker at St Wulstan's School in Great Harwood, said: "I am very upset. Glasses are very expensive and I can't afford to just lose a pair so easily.

"If the company was in financial trouble they should not have taken my glasses off me. I don't know where to turn."

Workmen have been seen entering the shop and removing eye-examination equipment and displays.

The shop occupies a unit that is part of the Arndale Centre and is sub-let by London estate agents Colliers CRE.

The agents say they have been unable to speak to the owners since the premises closed and are urgently trying to contact them. But they confirmed that Super-Specs has stopped trading.

The Accrington shop has a sister outlet in Rock Street, Bury, which closed at the same time.

The registered directors of the company are David Duane, 51, and Sandra Duane, 48, who both live in Brandlesholme Road, Bury.

The pair have not been available for comment.

Lancashire Trading Standards said it has received several complaints about the company.

Officer Julian Edwards said: "It is upsetting and frustrating for the people involved. I would urge anyone who has lost money to contact us."

He urged disgruntled customers to write a formal letter to the company outlining their losses.

He added: "It may seem ridiculous to post a letter to a empty shop but if they have gone out of business, the liquidator or official receiver will eventually deal with the mail."

Contact trading standards on 01772 533573.