Troubled clothing retailer New Look is to push ahead with plans to close 60 stores across the UK, including two in Kent, with the loss of 980 jobs.

Creditors approved its proposals for a company voluntary arrangement (CVA), a deal which will allow it to reduce its rent payments on a number of its stores.

It means its store in Ramsgate and at mens shop in Fremlin Walk in Maidstone will close - most likely within six to 12 months.

The company said it faced a "challenged trading performance and a difficult retail environment" and that the CVA "will deliver material annual cost savings".

The proposal was backed by 98% of its creditors.

It presently has 593 stores across the UK and employs 15,300 people.

Executive chairman Alistair McGeorge said: “In order to help restore long-term profitability, it is clear we need to reduce our fixed cost base.

"We are therefore pleased to have gained the support of our creditors to address our over-rented store estate.

"Launching a CVA has been a tough decision and our priority remains keeping all potentially affected colleagues informed during this difficult time.

“The CVA is one of a number of necessary actions we are taking to get the company back on track."