ABOUT 140 people face an uncertain future after a 200-year-old family firm called in the administrators.

Pearce Signs in Margate was established in the late 18th century and moved to the former Steelcase factory in Strasbourg Street.

Chairman Nicholas Pearce has been in charge since 1996, and is the seventh generation of the family to take over.

The company makes illuminated signs.

A number of parties have already expressed interest in buying the firm.

FULL STORY IN NEXT WEEK'S THANET EXTRA