THOUSANDS of Sidcup homeowners have thrown their support behind a petition calling on Waitrose to open in the high street.

Bexley Council says more than 4,200 signatures have been collected since the petition was launched last month in response to the supermarkets decision to pull out of opening on the Black Horse pub site.

Councillor Linda Bailey said: “We’re really grateful for the support of the people who have backed the petition so far and we hope to reach 5,000 signatures before we present it to the Waitrose board next month.

“We’ve been working hard to improve the town centre and a brand like Waitrose offering something different from other retailers is just what we need.”

Council leader, Councillor Teresa O’Neill added: “We’re working hard to revive the high street, although the economic climate is obviously challenging.

“We’ve improved the local road network, together with access from Morrisons’ into the high street, but we need the support of companies like Waitrose if we’re to turn things around.”

The petition is available to sign in Sidcup shops displaying the campaign poster and in Sidcup library, in Hadlow Road.

Bexley Council will also be inviting families to sign the petition at the Danson Festival in July and an online petition is running too.