The final axe? Paul Rowen speaks of his 'devastation'

The final axe may be about to fall on Woolworths, as administrators announce a nationwide "closure sale".

Hundreds of workers have already found themselves jobless after the high street giant fell into administration a fortnight ago.

Now fears are growing among remaining workers as it is announced that the company has failed to find a buyer, and may well collapse completely.

Administrator Deloitte said that if no offers for Woolworths were forthcoming, "it is possible that some stores may close before the end of December".

It was added that it would consult with the retailer's 30,000 staff over support available in the event of redundancies.

It has been reported that Sainsbury's, Asda, Tesco, the Co-op and discount chain Poundland are still interested in picking up some of the retailer's prime stores.

Paul Rowen MP has spoken of his "devastation". He said: "Woolworths is an institution and a great provider of both jobs and bargains to the people of our town.

"This devastating news could impact Rochdale more than anywhere else outside London.

"I was hopeful that a buyer would come forward but at a time of consumer difficulty coupled with supermarkets taking over the market, Woolworths was always under threat.

If Woolworths collapses completely, our town centre will never be the same."