Marks & Spencer is to close nine stores in September as it focuses efforts on stores "in the best locations".

In the firing line are three full line stores, along with five outlet stores and one Simply Food store in Birmingham.

Around 430 staff will be affected by the move. M&S said they will all be offered redeployment opportunities at nearby stores.

In a statement, the retailer said it was "making sure our stores are in the best possible locations to serve our customers", adding that it plans to open five full line and 90 Simply Food stores this year to achieve this.

A spokesperson for Marks & Spencer said: "As we have done for many years, we work hard to make sure our stores are in the best possible locations to serve our customers.

"This year we are closing nine stores, opening 90 new Simply Food stores, relocating two stores and opening five large clothing and food stores."

All the earmarked stores will close on September 26.

Outlet stores in Walsall, Aldershot, Pontypridd, Hounslow and Royal Quays Outlet Centre (North Shields) will close along with full line shops in

Stevenage, Wood Green and The Fort Retail Park.