The Official Receiver has announced that a further 152 former employees are being made redundant this week, taking the total to 1,141 since the company went into liquidation last month.

Ongoing employment has been agreed for another 942 workers as a result of new agreements, taking the total number of jobs saved to date to 7,610.

A statement by the Official Receiver said: “Most employees who have transferred so far have done so on existing or similar terms.

“Those who have lost their jobs will be able to find support through Jobcentre Plus’ Rapid Response Service and are also entitled to make a claim for statutory redundancy payments.

“Discussions with potential purchasers continue and I expect that the number of jobs safeguarded through the liquidation will continue to rise.

“I am continuing to engage with staff, elected employee representatives and unions to keep them informed as these arrangements are confirmed.”