A HEREFORD businessman is fearing for the future after Tesco confirmed plans to open a store in Whitecross.

The supermarket giant has bought the lease of the former Buckingham Inn pub and has set the wheels in motion to turn it into a convenience store - creating up to 20 jobs.

The Buckingham on Whitecross Road will go the way of the Game Cock pub after the latter was converted into a Tesco Express on Holme Lacy Road in 2010.

Craig Bradbury, who owns Cotterell Street Stores claims that a new Tesco will definitely impact on his business.

"The shop has been in demise for a little while due to the recession and this will further quicken with a Tesco round the corner," said Mr Bradbury.

"It is definitely a worry, but all we can hope is that the local community supports us like they always have done."

Simon Petar, corporate affairs manager at Tesco, said that the Express store will be open from early in the morning until late at night.

"We will bring additional choice for everyday items, like bread and milk, and other convenience goods," said Mr Petar.

"We look forward to serving both our customers and the local community in the coming months.”

Mr Petar added that applications for minor works to be undertaken at the store will be submitted to Herefordshire Council within the next few weeks.

It is anticipated that the new store will be open by the end of the year.