HOPES have been voiced that De Bradelei Wharf’s future is secure, despite the shock news the company is in administration.

De Bradelei Mill Stores, who run De Bradelei Wharf, at Wellington Dock, Dover, and five other discount designer clothes stores, announced it had proceeded to administration.

But administrators, Tenon Recovery, are confident Dover’s store will attract a quick sale, without any job losses.

De Bradelei Wharf has around 100 staff. Half are employed directly by De Bradelei Mill Stores, while half work for concessions within the store.

One member of staff who did not wish to be named, said: "We have been told staff will be paid as normal. My personal opinion is that it will be sold after the Christmas rush.

"Staff have taken the news very well and are optimistic for the future. I believe a buyer will be found, as Dover is the largest De Bradelei store."

Dover is also the most successful De Bradelei store, according to Tenon director, Dilip Dattani. But he added that De Bradelei Group are facing financial difficulties due to a slow down in high street spending.

He said that a buyer may come forward to buy the whole of De Bradelei Mill Stores, or individual stores could be sold separately.

Mr Dattani said: "The news for the Dover store, at the moment, is good. We have had a number of interested parties come forward, who want to trade the business and who have no intention of curtailing it. We believe all jobs will be preserved.

"Some of the parties who have come forward are looking at individual stores, while others are looking at the whole company. But it is likely that the store will remain as a clothing outlet, with a different management structure."

* FOR the time being, it is business as usual at De Bradelei Wharf, says the company.

The store was first opened in 1996 and extended in 1997.

Its ethos is to offer end of line and surplus designer stock at up to 70 per cent discount by acting as a clearance house for high street and designer brands.

Dover’s store has also built up a reputation for hosting events, and attracting people to the town. In January, many people enjoyed winter fun in an ice rink erected outside the store.