TWO retailers with branches in on Chester Retail Park have collapsed into administration.

3,200 jobs are at risk at Toys R Us has collapsed into administration, putting , after last-ditch rescue attempts failed.

Administrator Moorfields Advisory has started an "orderly wind-down" of the company's stores after the embattled firm failed to find a last-minute buyer to save the business.

Toys R Us - which has stores at Broughton Retail Park and at Chester's Greyhound Retail Park - is one of the nation's biggest toy retailers, with more than 100 stores in the UK and 1,500 in 33 countries across the globe.

The firm was grappling with a £15 million tax bill as well as money owed to lenders.

Toys R Us has struggled with cash flow pressures after sales were squeezed by worse-than-expected trading over the crucial Christmas period.

In addition, falling consumer spending, soaring inflation and competition from online rivals have dented performance in recent years.

Simon Thomas, Moorfields partner and joint administrator, said: "We will be conducting an orderly wind-down of the store portfolio over the coming weeks.

"All stores remain open until further notice and stock will be subject to clearance and special promotions. We're encouraging customers to redeem their gift cards and vouchers as soon as possible.

"We will make every effort to secure a buyer for all or part of the business."

Electronics company Maplin became the second retailer to collapse into administration yesterday, putting another 2,500 jobs at risk.

The group, owned by private equity firm Rutland Partners, called in PwC on Wednesday after attempts to rescue the chain failed.

Maplin has 217 stores in the UK, including one on the same part of Chester Retail Park as Toys R Us, and PwC is still attempting to find a buyer for the group.

Graham Harris, the company's chief executive, said: "I can confirm this morning that it has not been possible to secure a solvent sale of the business and as a result we now have no alternative but to enter into an administration process.

"During this process Maplin will continue to trade and remains open for business."