Sorry, this video asset has been removed.

Shoppers queued for bargains on Thursday as High Street veteran Woolworths announced its closing down sale.

Hundreds of jobs in Medway could be lost with many stores look set to shut by Christmas, after administrator Deloitte said it had failed to find a buyer.

Medway has the largest concentration of Woolworths stores in Kent with branches in Twydall, Gillingham, Chatham and Strood. Many shoppers said they were sad to see the demise of one of the UK’s oldest high street chains.

Pauline Stewart, 50, from Rainham said: “It’s really sad to see the store closing down. I grew up with Woolworths.

"I only came down here to get something for my daughter – I haven’t looked for any bargains, I think it’s a bit morbid.”

Stores were advertising up to 50 per cent off and many shoppers were keen to pick up a few bargains.

Carol Whatley, 52, from Chatham, said:

“I have come down here to get things for my grandchildren.

"I have already done all my Christmas shopping but I will be looking for things I can put away for birthdays and Christmas next year.”

Others were disappointed with the markdowns.

Lorraine Wills, 38, from Chatham, said: “I came down because it was on the news that there would be up to 50 per cent off but I couldn’t find anything that cheap.

"I will probably be back again to see if there are more reductions.”

A spokesman for Deloitte said: “While we are still seeking bids from interested parties, Christmas is clearly the busiest time of the year and it is prudent to do all we can to sell existing stock.

"By moving to a store closing sale and further discounting the stock, we are maximising the sales potential that this period offers.”