by Hayley Robinson

Another town store has become the latest casualty of the consumer spending downturn.

Furniture store Walmsley’s, which had more than 60 stores across the UK, including one in High Street, Sittingbourne, went into administration on August 31.

Paul Masters and Alan Clifton of Leonard Curtis Business Rescue and Recovery were appointed joint administrators of the company.

The Sittingbourne shop has closed, but SKG Capital has bought 25 stores, including all the stock of the business. It would not confirm if the Sittingbourne store is one of those which has been saved.

The administrators would not reveal how many staff worked at the Sittingbourne shop.

The company, which specialised in sofas, beds and dining furniture, started in 1933 and claimed to the largest high-street furniture retailer in the country.

Customers needing further information can call the helpline on 0845 076 8459.