FIFTY jobs have been axed at Craftworld, Horwich, after Middlebrook landlords pulled the plug on the ailing business.
The nationwide chain of craft and art supply stores has been in financial difficulties for some time and administrative receivers Grant Thornton were called in several weeks ago.
But a spokesman for the receivers said that while five of the Craftworld stores are continuing to trade while a buyer is sought, branches at Horwich and Fareham in Hampshire have been forced to shut.
He added that the move came after landlords, who are owed rent on the premises, carried out their right to take stock in lieu of back rent.
The 50 staff who worked at the Horwich branch were made redundant on Friday.
The spokesman said they are still in negotiations with one potential buyer for the store group and if it is successful then the Horwich store may re-open.
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