Wilko goes into administration, putting 12,000 jobs at risk across the UK including Newcastle and Gateshead

Homeware chain Wilko, which has 408 stores across the UK, has gone into administration, putting as many as 12,000 jobs at risk.

The company has two stores in Newcastle. These can be found on Nun Street in the city centre and Shields Road near Byker. Sites can also be found at the MetroCentre and within Gateshead Interchange.

In a statement, CEO Mark Jackson said: "We've all fought hard to keep this incredible business intact but must concede that time has run out and now, we must do what's best to preserve as many jobs as possible, for as long as is possible, by working with our appointed administrators."

The administration process will include a search for potential buyers of Wilko's shops and brand.

Read Newcastle's news on the go with our free email newsletters - bringing the headlines to your inbox. Catch up on the day's news and sport and enjoy even more from the NewcastleWorld team. Visit our website here to find out more and sign up.

The statement also says: “Over the past six months Wilko has been very open that we’ve been considering options to accelerate a turnaround plan given that we needed to make significant changes to the way we operate to restore confidence and stabilise our business.

“We left no stone unturned when it came to preserving this incredible business but must concede that with regret, we’ve no choice but to take the difficult decision to enter into administration.”

The hugely popular retailer, which has been running for 93 years having been founded in 1930, suspended home deliveries on Wednesday, August 9. Click and collect is still an option for customers as well as in-store shopping.