WILKO has collapsed into administration, with thousands of jobs at risk.

The high street chain said it has appointed administrators after failing to secure a rescue deal, putting about 12,000 jobs at risk.

Wilko has a branch in Hereford's Maylord Shopping Centre.

Yesterday (August 9) the business suspended home deliveries as it raced for a rescue deal to avoid collapse, telling online customers it was unable to deliver any orders.

Today's news comes a week after Wilko filed a notice of intent to appoint administrators, preparing itself for a potential insolvency.

Earlier this year, the retailer – which has around 400 shops and 12,000 employees – hired advisers from PwC in a bid to find a buyer to secure fresh funding to keep the firm trading.

Last year, Wilko agreed a deal to borrow £40 million from restructuring specialist Hilco after posting significant losses.

Last Thursday, Wilko said it had “no choice” but to file for the potential insolvency but would continue a possible rescue takeover.