Marks & Spencer shut its King Street store citing a decline in sales and the high cost of modernising the shop among the reasons.
It prompted a huge reaction among Shields Gazette readers and here are 11 of them who spoke up at the time.
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5. Margaret's view
Retired factory worker Margaret Urwin, 82, said at the time: “We don’t want to see another discount shop. I would like to see something like Fenwicks or Waitrose. We had Binns and then that went. Now Marks & Spencer has gone we don’t have a quality retailer left in the town. That’s what we need." | sg
6. George speaks up
George Larman said he came to South Shields from Gateshead but the closure of M&S meant he was less likely to make the journey. | sg
7. Janet's 2014 view
Former machinist Janet Garrett, 80, said: “It will take a big name to fill the gap Marks & Spencer leaves. I hope a big firm comes forward. I would welcome most things apart from another charity shop.” | sg
8. Sainsbury's an option for Frederick
Ex-Royal Navy serviceman Frederick Garrett, 82, from Biddick Hall, said: “Whatever takes its place has to be a respected food outlet. Maybe Sainsburys would be an option.” | sg