OUTLETS of collapsed furnishings chain Courts remained closed last night after customers threatened staff and damaged shops.

Administrators said they hoped to open the 88 stores soon, but were forced to take the action to protect workers.

More than 3,000 customers who have paid the full balance and whose goods are already in stock should receive their furniture, but this is just a small proportion of those with outstanding orders.

The company will be unable to deliver goods not already in stock as it has no money to pay the manufacturers. KPMG is advising customers who paid by credit card to contact their provider to seek a refund.

People who paid in cash or by cheque are unsecured creditors who will not receive goods or a refund as Courts is insolvent.