Adams Childrenswear will close 111 stores today, creating 850 redundancies, following the collapse of the retail chain.

PricewaterhouseCoopers partner and joint administrator Rob Hunt said: "Since our appointment five days ago, I am pleased to say that we have had a number of expressions of interest in the Adams business and brand. As a result, we are hopeful that we will be able sell some parts of the business.”

He added: "However, following our appointment and in light of the current downturn being experienced on the high street, it is with regret that it has been necessary to effect the closure of 111 stores throughout the UK as of today.

"Unfortunately, this will inevitably lead to a number of job losses and 850 people across the company will be made redundant with immediate effect. My team and I will be doing all we can to help these employees at this difficult time."

The remaining 160 stores are still trading.