High street chain Wilko has fallen into administration after failing to secure a rescue deal - with jobs at risk in Ayrshire.

The retailer has two stores in Ayrshire - in Ayr and Irvine - with the company appointing administrators this morning, August 10.

Around 12,000 staff who work in the company's 400 stores across the UK are at risk of losing their jobs. 

Wilko chief executive officer Mark Jackson confirmed earlier this week that the company planned to file for administration despite interest from other parties. 

He said: “While we can confirm we’ve had a significant level of interest, we don’t have an offer that provides the necessary liquidity in the time we have available, given the mounting cash pressures we’re faced with.

“Unfortunately, with this in mind, we’re having to take the difficult decision to file a notice of intention.

“We’ll continue to progress discussions with interested parties with the aim of completing a transaction which preserves the business and will encourage those interested parties we’re in discussions with to move as fast as possible."