COUNTRYWIDE, the Worcestershire-based firm supplying products and advice to the rural community, has launched a big closing down sale.

The Evesham-based firm, which has stores in Evesham, Malvern, Upton, Bromyard and Ledbury went into administration on Wednesday, March 7.

A red and white banner on the company's website is advertising a 'closing down sale' with up to 30 per cent discount on in store purchases.

Administrators are seeking a purchaser for the business in whole or part.

The company is one of the UK's leading suppliers of agricultural goods including a range of farming, equestrian, harvesting and agricultural supplies, and employs more than 700 people and has 48 stores.

A statement on the website last week said no "initial redundancies" had been made but it is not clear if the situation has changed.

Administrators have appointed Hilco Capital to assist in running the stores whilst we explore and develop available options.

A statement on the website reads: "David Pike, Mark Orton and Will Wright have been appointed as Joint Administrators of Countrywide Farmers Plc (in Administration). The affairs, business and property of the company are being managed by the joint administrators."

Anyone interested in buying some or all of the stores can contact Gareth Shaw on 07740 894721 or email Gareth.Shaw@KPMG.co.uk or for property interest and landlord queries email info@phdproperty.co.uk. 

A year ago the firm closed 14 stores and announced is was looking to sell off the remaining 53 stores.

The Worcester News has contacted the administrators for comment.