Ethel Austin jobs threat

Thousands of jobs - many of them across the West Midlands - were at risk today after discount clothing chain Ethel Austin was placed in administration.

The Merseyside-based company, which employs around 2,800 staff at 300 stores across the UK, had only recently completed a financial restructuring plan.

Administrator Menzies Corporate Restructuring said it hopes to find a buyer for the firm, which was founded in 1934.

Philip Duffy, of Manchester-based Menzies, said: "At this stage it's too early to be certain about the exact reasons for the financial difficulties.

"Our primary concern is to ensure that the business continues to trade in the coming weeks and that a suitable buyer is found.

"Despite the current challenges faced by the retail sector we remain confident that a buyer can be found."The company has stores in Cradley Heath, West Bromwich, Brierley Hill, Walsall, Bloxwich, Wednesbury, Darlaston, Dudley, Heath Town in Wolverhampton, Bilston, Kidderminster, Stourbridge, Stafford, Stone and Rugeley.

Mr Duffy said Ethel Austin had a good brand and customer base which should make it an attractive opportunity for a retailer.

"We appreciate this is a worrying time for staff and are keen to keep them informed," he said.

The business was formed by Ethel and George Austin in their Anfield council house in 1934. MCR said the latest turnover for the firm was around £150 million.

Last year it announced it had clinched the contract to supply the official uniforms for this year's Liverpool Capital of Culture events.

Shopworkers' union Usdaw, which has around 600 members among the firm's staff, said the announcement had not come as a total susprise.

John Gorle, Usdaw national officer, said: "We've been aware for some time of the financial difficulties of the business."