DORSET workers are fearing for their jobs after a phone store was put into administration.

Phones 4U stores in St Mary Street, Weymouth, and South Street, Dorchester, were closed yesterday and signs posted on the doors advising customers where they can get more information.

Staff are anxiously waiting for news to be announced by administrator PwC as to whether the business will be able to continue trading.

Employees were asked to attend work yesterday. Those who were going to the Weymouth store declined to make a comment when they were approached by the Dorset Echo.

Customer Sarah Riggs was shocked to see the sign posted on the door.

The 32-year-old said: “I was just passing by when I saw it.

“It is a bit worrying because I don’t know if I’m going to be cut off. I could be left without a phone.

“I just don’t know what’s going to happen.”

The company has reassured customers that all mobile contracts bought through Phones 4U will be unaffected and networks will continue to provide mobile services.

The move into administration follows decisions by network partners EE and Vodafone not to renew their contracts with the phone store.

Phones 4U chief executive David Kassler said: “If the mobile network operators decline to supply us, we do not have a business.

“A good company making profits of over £100million, employing thousands of decent people has been forced into administration.

“The great service we have provided should have guaranteed a strong future, but unfortunately our network partners have decided otherwise.

“The ultimate result will be less competition, less choice and higher prices for mobile customers in the UK.”

Ian Girling, chief executive of Dorset Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: “This is obviously very sad news.

“Despite being extremely profitable, it seems that Phones 4U were extremely vulnerable in the supply chain, particularly in relation to their contracts with EE and Vodaphone.

“It’s also another blow for the high street and consumer choice in the marketplace.”