Footwear retailer Russell & Bromley has entered administration, with its Richmond branch announcing a clearance sale and the future of the store now uncertain.

The 145-year-old British brand, founded in Eastbourne in 1880, appointed administrators from Interpath on Wednesday 21 January.

While all stores are currently trading, administrators have confirmed they are reviewing the future of the remaining estate, putting a number of locations, including Richmond, at risk.

Fashion chain Next has agreed a deal worth £2.5 million to acquire part of the business. Under the agreement, Next will take ownership of three of Russell & Bromley's 36 stores and pay a further £1.3 million for the company's remaining stock.

The deal is intended to safeguard parts of the business, but leaves uncertainty for the majority of stores and around 400 employees across the retail and concession estate.

A Notice displayed in the Richmond branch alongside clearance signage confirm that refunds and exchanges are now heavily restricted.

Customers are being told that items bought in store before the administrators were appointed cannot be refunded or exchanged, and that online returns can no longer be processed.

Shoppers who paid by debit or credit card are advised to contact their card provider to see if they are eligible for a refund.

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Administrators Will Wright and Chris Pole of Interpath said they are continuing to assess options for the remaining stores, which include nine concession locations, while keeping shops open for the time being.

In a statement, Next said it secured "the future of a much loved British footwear brand."

"Next intends to build on this legacy and provide the operational stability and expertise to support Russell & Bromley's next chapter, allowing it to return to its core mission: the design and curation of world-class, premium footwear and accessories for many years to come."

Russell & Bromley, best known for its premium footwear and accessories, has traded for nearly a century and a half, with a long-standing presence on Richmond's high street.

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