Department store Beales has gone into administration - a move which puts more than 1,000 jobs at risk nationwide.

The retailer had warned last week it was planning to make the move unless a buyer could be found.

It has operated a store at the Angel Centre in Tonbridge since taking over the Bentalls chain.

The company, headquartered in Bournemouth and which started trading in 1881, revealed before Christmas it was examining its options, one of which was the sale of the company.

The group, which has 22 stores nationwide, said such a move was necessary as it "continues to acclimatise to the ever-changing landscape and challenges of the retail market. Investment is sought to deliver a sustainable business model for the future".

This morning, its website was taken off line.

It is understood KPMG will oversee the administration process with all stores continuing to trade during the process.

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