THERE are fears for the future of workers at five Hampshire branches of budget fashion chain Ethel Austin after the ailing business was placed in administration.

The Merseyside-based company, which has 300 stores across the UK including Locks Heath, Eastleigh and one of the biggest shops in Shirley High Street, is continuing to trade for the time being while a buyer is sought.

Philip Duffy and David Whitehouse, partners in Menzies Corporate Restructuring (MCR), have been appointed joint administrators.

Mr Duffy said: "At this stage, it is 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. Ethel Austin has a good brand and good customer base and this, together with its national coverage, should make it an attractive opportunity for a retailer.

"We appreciate that this is a worrying time for staff and are therefore keen to keep them informed of progress."

The business was formed by Ethel and George Austin in their Liverpool council house in 1934.

MCR said that the latest annual turnover for the firm was about £150m.

The company employs about 2,800 staff throughout its stores and the company headquarters in Knowsley.