RSPCA closureThe RSPCA Northumberland West branch has confirmed the permanent closure of its charity shop on Front Street in Prudhoe - describing it as a difficult decision driven by dwindling trade and rising costs. Jan Ormiston, trustee of RSPCA Northumberland West Branch, said the board of trustees had "carefully considered" the future viability of the Prudhoe shop before deciding it could no longer continue trading from the site. The closure has prompted a wider debate about Prudhoe Front Street, with readers citing parking, shop rents, footfall and the mix of businesses, while others maintain the high street still has strengths. Amanda Hughes Fletcher said: “I LOVE a good charity shop but sadly the RSPCA shop was never open,” while praising the volunteers and urging people to support local businesses. Brownfield site saleReaders' reactions to the news that the location of the former Stella North coal-fired power station in Newcastle was up for sale were mixed.