THE Stroud branch of Focus DIY in Dudbridge Hill remains open for business and no redundancies have yet been confirmed despite the chain announcing it has gone into administration.

A statement on the company’s website confirms that partners from business advisory firm Ernst & Young have been appointed joint administrators of the DIY and gardening retailer, which employs 3,920 staff across the UK, including 24 in Stroud.

Simon Allport from Ernst & Young said: "Focus will continue to trade as we look for a buyer for the group and its stores.

"It is very much business as usual and we are grateful to all the group's loyal customers, suppliers and employees for their continued support.

"Low consumer confidence and a very weak housing transaction market has impacted on Focus and placed considerable pressure on sales and margins.

"Despite management's actions to tightly control costs and restructure operations, unfortunately it has not been possible for the business to continue to trade outside of insolvency.

"We have received a fantastic level of interest in the business and will continue to seek offers for the sale."

KEEP CHECKING THE WEBSITE FOR UPDATES ON THIS AS THEY OCCUR.