A WOMAN has died after collapsing at a Marks & Spencer store in Witney today.

Thames Valley Police confirmed earlier today that the first floor of the store in Marriott's Close was closed for ambulance crews to treat an elderly lady.

SCAS spokeswoman Catherine Morrow said: “We were called at 13.48 for a medical emergency in Marriott's Close. We sent an ambulance crew and emergency care practitioner who assessed one patient at the scene. One adult female was confirmed deceased at the scene.”

TVP spokeswoman Lucy Billen confirmed the store was closed after an elderly lady collapsed.

She said the decision was taken to close the store so the woman could be treated by ambulance crews. 

She said the family had been informed. 

Amy Ashford, a spokeswoman for Marks & Spencer Witney, said: “Our café was closed while we dealt with a medical incident in store.

"Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the customer’s family."

Carole Jeffrey, who works in the town's Blue Cross charity shop, was in the men's department at the time and said she was impressed with the way staff conducted themselves.

The 68-year-old, who lives just outside of Witney, said: "Although I did not witness the happenings, I witnessed the superb handling of all the staff. 

"They conducted themselves in an orderly and structured manner. Full praise to all the staff at Marks & Spencer Witney and condolences to the family concerned."

She added: "The staff were running up the walls, they were so concerned. I was amazed. Hopefully that will be of some comfort to the family."