Doubts hang over the jobs of more than 30 Littlewoods workers following the takeover of the high street chain by budget clothing firm, Primark, on Monday.

Union officials held a meeting with staff at the Fishergate store on Monday after Primark made the £409million purchase of all Littlewoods' 120 stores.

A meeting between Primark bosses and representatives from the USDAW union is expected this week to try and secure the jobs of the workers at the store.

It follows the closure of the Littlewoods-owned Index stores this week, including its Preston shop.

Primark, owned by Associated British Foods, plan to retain 40 Littlewoods stores and sell off the remaining shops to major retailers. It is not yet known if Preston will be transformed into a Primark or sold-off.

New Look and Philip Green's Arcadia Group, which includes BHS, have already been named as interested bidders for the remaining Littlewoods' stores. Budget fashion chain Primark employs more than 10,000 people at its 122 UK and Ireland stores.

The announcement ends months of uncertainty after Littlewoods first revealed plans, in January, to shed its high street stores.

Paul Clarke, USDAW spokesman, said: "It's a very worrying time for the staff and it's understandable they want to know what's happening.."

USDAW said they are confident Preston will get a Primark store but cannot guarantee staff will keep their jobs.

"Primark say they are committed to redeploying as many employees as they can," said Mr Clarke.

"Preston is a booming city so I think the situation is positive."