Shoppers on the Weymouth high street have reacted with shock at the news that one of the town's biggest chains may be threatened.

Wilko in Weymouth is one of the more than 400 stores across the UK that could be at risk after the chain announced it would be going into administration.

Currently, no store closures have been announced and stores remain open as usual.

The firm employs around 12,000 nationally and sells homeware and household goods.

For Weymouth's Wilko in Westham Road it was business as usual yesterday, with a steady stream of business on a mild mid-morning Monday. 

Jan Richie, from Weymouth, had just bought some cards from Wilko.

She said: "It is sad.

"It seems to be happening all over the place. It is a shame. I am not surprised, there are many shops going into administration."

For Connor Patterson, from Weymouth, the shop has been a fixture of the town centre since his childhood.

He said: "Quite a few shops in town are going. Wilko has been here since I moved here at 13 and it's a handy shop to have because they sell a lot of things."

Mike Perry, from Weymouth, said: "It is a shame for the town.

"You turn on the news and another business goes under."

Donna Bosworth, from Weymouth, was surprised by the news of the upcoming administration and feels that shops are leaving the town in favour of retail parks.

She said: "It is a bit of a shock really.

"It just seems like all the reasonable shops are going out of Weymouth town which is just sad."

Alan Goddard, from Puncknowle, thinks that losing the Wilko would be a blow to the town, but is optimistic about its future.

He said: "I was very surprised because I thought it was doing well. I didn't realise it was in such difficulties. Losing it would be a blow to the town.

"I think it will probably be saved and someone will buy it."

Weymouth and Portland's Chamber of Commerce president Paul Appleby said: "It is regrettable that a large chain is in trouble.

"It is a popular store in Weymouth and would be missed.

"We hope they can find a buyer and that Weymouth survives any cutbacks."

A Wilko spokesperson said: "No store closures have been announced and all stores remain open as usual."

Read more: High street retailer Wilko set for administration with 12,000 jobs at risk