THE Ethel Austin discount clothing store in Cowley is to close within three weeks, with the loss of about ten jobs.

It is one of 33 of the chain's 300 shops to be closed by administrators Menzies Corporate Restructuring after a financial rescue deal fell through.

John Gorle, of the shop worker's union Usdaw, said: "We are now seeking urgent talks with the administrators to work out the best way to support and assist our membership in this difficult situation."

About 300 store jobs are to go throughout the UK, with another 190 at Ethel Austin's head office in Knowsley, near Liverpool.