Kent could lose its two Joules shops as the clothing brand formally files for administration.

The company has two Kent branches - one in Whitstable and another at the designer outlet in Ashford - both of which have uncertain futures following the announcement on Monday.

Both Kent locations have only been open since 2019 and are now likely to be shut before Christmas.

Nationally, the fashion firm has 132 shops and more than 1,600 workers, whose jobs are now at risk.

Joules made the decision to file a notice to appoint administrators after failing to secure emergency funding earlier this week.

They have now engaged the services of Interpath Advisory as administrators.

A spokesperson for Interpath Advisory confirmed the shops would remain open while assessments were made.

They said: “We will assess options for the business, including exploring the possibility of a sale as a going concern.”

While the two Joules stores in Kent had only been open three years, they will be missed if they do close their doors, as high streets across the county struggle in the midst of the pandemic and cost of living crisis.

However Interpath Advisory remains hopeful a deal will be made, saying it has witnessed “overwhelming” interest from potential suitors to snap up the brand and its assets.

Will Wright, head of restructuring at Interpath Advisory and joint administrator, said: “Joules is one of the most recognisable names on the high street, with a unique brand identity and loyal customer base.

“Over the coming weeks, we will endeavour to continue to operate all stores as a going concern during this vitally important Christmas trading period while we assess options for the group, including a possible sale.

“Since the group’s announcement on Monday, we have had an overwhelming amount of interest from interested parties.

“We will be working hard over the days ahead to assess this interest, but at this stage we are optimistic that we will be able to secure a future for this great British brand.”

In the meantime the Whitstable and Ashford branches will remain open and Joules has reassured customers that online orders will be delivered as normal.

The company also advised that it would honour any current gift cards but would no longer be offering refunds and instead offer to exchange items.