by business editor Trevor Sturgess

Dozens of retail jobs across the county are at risk after disappointing Christmas sales hit three well-known high street names.

La Senza, the lingerie retailer, and Past Times, which sells nostalgia products, are both expected to call in administrators in the New Year.

Hawkin's Bazaar, the toys and games retailer, is in trouble after its owner

Tobar Group Holdings went into administration.

La Senza, which was previously owned by entrepreneur and Dragons' Den panellist Theo Paphitis, operates shops in Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells, Canterbury, Bromley and Bexleyheath. It is continuing to trade normally as a buyer is sought.

Past Times has 100 stores, including Maidstone, Dockside Outlet Centre, Chatham, Canterbury, Tunbridge Wells, Ashford, Ashford Designer Outlet, Bromley and Bexleyheath. It slashed prices before and after Christmas and hoped its Downton Abbey-themed products would boost festive sales.

Some 380 jobs at Hawkin's Bazaar are at risk at its Suffolk head office and 65 stores across the UK, including Ashford, Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells, Hempstead Valley, Bluewater, Bexleyheath and Bromley.

Peter Savile, joint administrator at Zolfo Cooper, said: "In common with many retailers, the group has experienced exceptionally challenging trading conditions of late. At this stage we intend to continue to trade the component parts whilst we seek a buyer for all or parts of its operations."