Historic pottery firm Waterford Wedgwood has become the latest victim of the global economic slow-down.

Business advisory firm Deloitte has announced it had become administrators of the debt-laden ceramics and china firm, along with a number of its subsidiary companies.

The company, whose roots stretch back 250 years to the foundation of Wedgwood pottery, has stores across the county including a retail concession in House of Fraser in Maidstone’s Fremlin Walk, Dover, Canterbury and Bluewater.

Administrators say attempts to restructure the business have been abandoned and they are now trying to find a buyer for the beleaguered firm.

The Ireland-based business, known for its Wedgwood pottery, Royal Doulton and Waterford crystal, has 19 retail stores in the United Kingdom as well as 120 retail concessions, and employs more than 2,500 manufacturing staff world-wide

Joint administrator, Angus Martin, said they would be continuing to trade while seeking a sale, adding: “Waterford, Wedgwood and Royal Doulton are quintessentially classic brands that represent a high quality product which is steeped in history.

“The administration team will be working closely with management, customers and suppliers during this time to ensure operations continue whilst a sale of the business is sought.”