House of Fraser says it is to close the iconic Kendals store in Manchester.

The doors of the House of Fraser store on Deansgate remained closed past its usual opening time this morning - after arriving for work staff were given the news that it will close on January 28. Some staff were reportedly seen in tears.

A sign on the doors of the store today read: "Due to unforeseen circumstances the store will not open until 10.30am. We apologise for any inconvenience this will cause."

House of Fraser has been in financial difficulty with several stores closing down across the UK, and Sports Direct's Mike Ashley took over in a £90m deal , just as it looked like going into administration.

The flagship Manchester store was spared the axe - until now.

A spokesman from House of Fraser said: “We have suggested various options to the landlord that would have enabled us to save the store in Manchester. Sadly, these have been declined.

“We are now in consultation with staff about the fact that the store faces closure in the New Year.”

The building has held a special place in Manchester hearts for decades, and even now is still best known as Kendals.

We'll bring you updates and reaction to this breaking story below.

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