THE company behind Jacks, the long-established independent camping and outdoor equipment, retailer in Colchester, has gone into administration.

Adam Clarke and Andrew Kensall, from regional accountancy firm Larking Gowen, have been appointed joint administratores of Jacks Famous Supplies (Camping) Ltd, which operates the store in St Nicholas Street.

The store, which has a workforce of nine full-time staff, will continue trade as normal while a buyer for the business is sought.

Jacks has been operating from the same location in St Nicholas Street since 1946 and for the last 35 years has been managed by David Williams, a director of the company.

Mr Clarke said: 'Jacks, like many other high street retailers, has been struggling with competition from internet sales.

'Having met with David Williams it was decided that placing the company into administration would provide the company with breathing space whilst it continues to trade and a purchaser for the business is sought.'

Mr Williams expressed thanks to Jacks customers for their loyalty over many years.

Jacks sells a wide range of wares including gas cartridges, portable cookers and lanterns for camping, outdoor clothing such as wax jackets, body warmers, Doc Martens boots and Hunter wellies, work wear including steel-toe work shoes, boiler suits and lab coats, and gardening goods such as tools and tarpaulins.