STAFF at childrenswear shops in Accrington and Chorley have been made redundant after a retailer announced it was closing almost half its stores.

Adams Childrenswear Ltd was placed into administration last week as it struggled to cope with the effects of the credit crunch.

And administrators PricewaterhouseCoopers announced yesterday that the firm was closing 111 of its 271 stores nationwide, including those in Accrington and Chorley town centres.

Each store is understood to employ around six to eight members of staff.

Rob Hunt, joint administrator and partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, said: “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.

“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,” added Mr Hunt.

The remaining 160 stores will stay open as normal while the administrators try and find a buyer for the business.

Adams con-tinues to employ 2,350 staff, and PwC said it was “hopeful” of being able to sell some parts of the business.

Mr Hunt continued: “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 to sell some parts of the business.”