Up to 1,600 jobs could be at risk as clothing firm Joules looks set to fall into administration.

The Leicestershire-based company, which has 132 shops, including one in Aberdeen's Union Square, said it intended to appoint administrators after failing to secure emergency investment.

Many retailers have been struggling as consumers cut spending in the face of the soaring cost of living.

Joules was founded by Tom Joule, and started out selling clothes at country shows in 1989.

Mr Joule said he had started the firm with "one man, one tent and a lot of enthusiasm", finding a niche in the market when he realised there was a demand for colourful clothing amid the standard tweeds worn to such events.

On Monday, Mr Joule said in a statement: "Today is a deeply disappointing day for Joules, and a sad day for me personally.

"However, we recognise our business has become too complex and our model today is not aligned to succeed in the current, tough trading environment."

He added: "It is my strong belief that Joules remains a desirable, differentiated brand that, with the right model and structure, can thrive again."

Last week, furniture retailer Made.com fell into administration, leading to hundreds of job losses, with high street giant Next buying Made's brand name, website and intellectual property.

The BBC said Next had been in talks with Joules during the summer over taking a stake in the company, but these discussions ended in September.

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