JOBS are under threat at two town centre retailers — after both companies collapsed into administration yesterday.

Last-ditch rescue efforts to save Toys R Us failed, putting 3,200 jobs at risk across the nation, including at the store at the Trinity Retail Park.

Electronics company Maplin, which has a shop in Manchester Road, has also collapsed.

It was first revealed in December that the Toys R Us Bolton store, next to the A666, was likely to shut.

Simon Thomas, of administrators Moorfields, said: "We will be conducting an orderly wind-down of the store portfolio over the coming weeks."

"All stores remain open until further notice and stock will be subject to clearance and special promotions. We're encouraging customers to redeem their gift cards and vouchers as soon as possible."

He added: "Whilst this process is likely to affect many Toys R Us staff, whether some or all of the stores will close remains to be decided.

"We have informed employees about the process this morning and will continue to keep them updated on developments.

"We are grateful for the commitment and hard work of employees as the business continues to trade."

Toys R Us is one of the nation's biggest toy retailers, with more than 100 stores in the UK and 1,500 in 33 countries across the globe.

Around 2,500 jobs are at risk at Maplin, which employs approximately 10 people in Bolton.

The group, owned by private equity firm Rutland Partners, called in PwC on Wednesday after attempts to rescue the chain failed.

Graham Harris, the company's chief executive, said: "I can confirm this morning that it has not been possible to secure a solvent sale of the business and as a result we now have no alternative but to enter into an administration process.

"During this process Maplin will continue to trade and remains open for business."

He added: "We believe passionately that Maplin has a place on the high street, and that our trust, credibility and expertise meets a customer need that is not supported elsewhere."

He added that the retailer has been struggling to mitigate the impact of the pound's devaluation post the Brexit vote, a weak consumer environment and the withdrawal of credit insurance.

Meanwhile, Hundreds of jobs are expected to be lost at Prezzo as the restaurant chain edges closer to a restructuring that will see up to 100 sites close.

Prezzo, owned by private equity firm TPG Capital, is set to launch a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA), which will allow the Italian-themed chain to exit unprofitable branches and secure rent reductions on the remaining estate.

It is not known whether the Prezzo in the Vaults at the Market Place Shopping Centre will be one of those to shut.