THE Focus DIY chain is starting to disappear from the region's retail parks as administrators have failed to secure a buyer for the group. Focus stores in Darlington, Bishop Auckland, Guisborough and Newcastle were closed earlier this week, and the Hartlepool branch will shut its doors today.

Outlets still awaiting a confirmed closure date include those in Harrogate and in Consett, County Durham.

It had been hoped that some of the stores would be saved but about 100 staff in the region will lose their jobs as a result of the closure programme. Since Focus went into administration last month administrators Ernst & Young have managed to save some 900 jobs across the UK by selling more than 50 stores to rivals including B&Q and Wickes.

The administrators appointed retail consultants Gordon Brothers to advise on the sale of the stock at the remaining stores. A closing down sale has been taking place in recent weeks, with stock discounted by up to 70 per cent.

Simon Allport, one of joint administrators, said finding a buyer for the group had not proved possible against the tough retail backdrop. "UK retailers are facing one of the most challenging retail environments in recent times and the DIY sector has become highly competitive, with only the strongest players being able to survive," he explained.