Last updated at 16:11, Tuesday, 20 November 2012

SEVENTEEN jobs are due to go when Barrow’s Comet store closes.

BUSY: Shoppers flocked to Comet in Barrow as its closing down sale took place. Pictured is the store yesterday after bargain hunters had bought a lot of its stock LINDSEY DICKINGS REF: 50041271B000

The electrical retailer was placed into administration earlier this month and at the weekend 27 stores slashed prices in a closing down sale, with 14 more due to start sales next week.

Shoppers flocked to the Barrow store on Hollywood Park in a bid to bag a bargain, though by Monday many of the shelves were already empty. Security staff were drafted in to ensure shoppers didn’t come to blows over sale items, while some shoppers were left angry when the use of gift cards was temporarily suspended.

The chain has cited poor sales and internet based competition as reasons for its difficulties. It was understood the store would close today but Deloitte, the firm’s administrators, were unable to confirm when the Barrow store would officially shut but said it would be before the end of the month.

Staff will be offered the chance to relocate, but for Barrow staff this would mean at least a 67-mile round trip to the next nearest store.

Among the shoppers taking advantage of the closing down bargains were Michael and Ella Platt. Mr Platt said: “This is our third trip – we have bought cameras, memory cards and a half price washing machine. We have got all sorts of bits and pieces, our washing machine had just blown up so it was a bit of luck.”

Mrs Platt added: “It’s a shame for the workers losing their jobs, especially before Christmas. We came down on Saturday – it was madness.”

Staff at the store told the Evening Mail they were unable to comment.

Chris Farrington, joint administrator, added: “We are very grateful to the company’s employees for their professionalism, loyalty and support at this difficult time.”

First published at 11:28, Tuesday, 20 November 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk