TOWN centre trading has been dealt a pre-Christmas blow after High Street staple M&Co plunged into administration sparking fears over shop closures and job losses across south Essex.

The women’s fashion chain has stores in Rayleigh High Street, Knightswick Shopping Centre on Canvey, Billericay High Street, Wickford High Street, and other Essex locations.

Directors of the firm have placed the chain in administration, and appointed Gavin Park, Adele MacLeod and Rob Harding of Teneo Financial Advisory Limited as joint administrators.

The administrators said they could not comment on store closures or job losses when approached by the Echo but the move has sparked worries about empty stores and job losses just before Christmas.

Stuart Sullivan, Tory councillor for Billericay East said: “It’s disappointing to hear this and we hope the administrators can keep it going as a concern so we don’t see empty shops and the impact of that. The council will keep supporting the high street as much as possible to make sure it stays viable. It’s always sad to see the possibility of shops shutting down.”

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Cheryl Roe, deputy leader of Rochford Council, said: “I think it’s such a shame to see any store closing and we don’t have many clothing shops in Rayleigh.

“Unless it’s taken over it’s going to leave a big gap in our high street. It’s very disappointing.

“I think customers will also feel disappointed too and the Rayleigh one is well used too. If any shop goes we are all disappointed and I am also worried about job losses too.We don’t want to see people lose their jobs at any time but especially at Christmas. My thoughts are with them.”

In a letter to the Echo, Janet Warner said: “I was saddened to see the notice on the main doors of M&Co in Rayleigh High Street.

M&Co have been in our High Street for many years and has provided a valuable service, with lovely staff.

“We wish them well for the future. The economic crisis is beginning to bite, it becomes very real when it affects us.”

Customers have been told they can return items to store but will be only offered an exchange.The stores can no longer accept loyalty reward vouchers or add points onto existing loyalty cards.

Joint administrator Gavin Park said “Like many retailers, the company has experienced a sharp rise in its input costs, which has coincided with a decline in consumer confidence leading to trading challenges. Despite a very loyal customer base, particularly in local markets, and a well-recognised brand, the current economic outlook has placed increasing pressure on the company’s cash position.”