Retail empire Arcadia is on the brink of collapse with jobs at Topshop, Burton and Dorothy Perkins at risk.

Owner by Sir Philip Green, the business was in talks with potential lenders about securing a £30million load to steady it through Christmas.

But the talks have failed and administrators could be called in on Monday with 13,000 jobs at risk across the country.

There is a Topshop, Topman and Dorothy Perkins in Ayr, and a Burton and Dorothy Perkins in Irvine.

A spokesperson for the business said the coronavirus pandemic had a major impact on trading across the retail outlets.

They said: "As a result, the Arcadia boards have been working on a number of contingency options to secure the future of the group's brands. The brands continue to trade and our stores will be opening again in England and the Republic of Ireland as soon as the government COVID-19 restrictions are lifted next week."

Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) said it was devastating news for Arcadia workers just before Christmas.

The retail trade union called on management to engage in talks to try to save jobs and ensure staff are treated fairly and also urged the government to intervene.

Dave Gill, Usdaw National Officer, said: “This is a devastating blow for workers at Arcadia and could not have come at a worse time, just before Christmas.

"We are seeking urgent meetings with management and we urge them to end their longstanding anti-union stance and engage with us. In the meantime we are providing our members with the support and advice they need at this difficult time."