'What will be left of Milton Keynes shopping centre after Covid-19 crisis has passed?' ask shoppers

Cath Kidston is permanently closing all 60 of its retail stores throughout the UK.

The vintage-inspired label will continue online following a rescue deal with its Hong Kong-based owner.But only 32 jobs will be saved and 900 staff will be made redundant.

Melinda Paraie, chief executive of Cath Kidston, said: “While we are pleased that the future of Cath Kidston has been secured, this is obviously an extremely difficult day as we say goodbye to many colleagues.

"Despite our very best efforts, against the backdrop of Covid-19, we were unable to secure a solvent sale of the business which would have allowed us to avoid administration and carry on trading in our current form.”

The news is another blow for the centre:mk and intu after a string of major stores have called in administrators in recent weeks. These include Oasis, Warehouse, Laura Ashley and Debenhams.

One shopper said: "It's worrying news. And it really makes you wonder what will be left at our shopping centre after the Covid-19 crisis has finally passed."