SHOPPERS are being urged to boycott a "squatters' store" operating illegally in the heart of the town centre.

Traders took over the vacant Madhouse shop in Commercial Road around two months ago and are now selling cheap watches and clothing from the premises.

But the fact they are not paying business rates or rent has angered other shop owners and Bournemouth council.

Kevin Moore, town centre manager, said he had received several complaints about the shop but had failed in his attempts to force them to leave.

Trading standards officials and the police have also visited the premises but are unable to close them down.

The confusion is caused by the fact the shop is owned by Cromwell's Madhouse, which is currently in administration.

"Because it's in the hands of the administrators, there is no sense of urgency to evict these people," said Mr Moore.

"People should be aware that this is not a proper shop and if they buy anything from it, they will potentially have no comeback at all.

"I would recommend people stick to reputable businesses, then you will have your statutory rights if something goes wrong. Plus, it means you are supporting proper businesses that are putting something back into the community."

One town-centre trader, who did not wish to be named, said the genuine retailers could not understand what was going on.

He said: "They are in a prime site in the middle of town - and for free. Everybody's very sympathetic but it seems nothing can be done.

"It's so annoying. Why is there not a law out there under which they can be moved on?"

And Paul Walker, trading standards' manager at Bournemouth Borough Council, said it was "frustrating for all concerned".

"We do have serious concerns about the premises and we're investigating any breaches that we might be able to enforce against."

He advised anyone with concerns about the shop or in need of trading standards advice to contact 451551.

The Daily Echo visited the shop but was told that nobody was available to comment.

First published: May 12