The former Woolworths in Bicester is one of 51 stores snapped up by frozen food giant Iceland, it emerged last night.

The announcement came just three days after the Bicester shop in Sheep Street closed its doors after more than 30 years trading in the town.

It employed about 35 people.

Iceland said it planned to create 2,500 new jobs across the country over the coming year.

A spokesman said: "We are confident we can help to support the local community in the towns that have lost a major High Street retailer in Woolworths.”