Major high street chain announce mass closures

The company has more than 300 stores across the Ireland and the UK

Administrators were called into Claire's Accessories to look to rescue the chain, after the US-based Claire's group struggled to find a buyer for its UK operations.

Claire's has been present on the high street for decades, with the brand being founded in 1961.

It has been a staple of the high street, known for selling accessories, and its ear piercing services.

The company has 278 shops in the UK, and 28 in Ireland, but they have struggled as a result of increased competition and falling sales.

Earlier this week, administrators sold 156 stores to Modella Capital, saving around 1,000 jobs.

However the remaining 145 stores were not part of the deal and are now set to be closed.

Across the island of Ireland, 20 stores will close for good.

A list of stores set for closure is below, as reported by the Express:

England:

Scotland:

Wales:

• Cardiff, St David’s Centre
• Haverfordwest, Riverside Quay
• Llantrisant, Talbot Green Retail Park
• Cwmbran, The Mall
• Carmarthen, Grey Friars

Ireland: