Two shops based in Whitefriars have become the latest victims of the global economic slow-down.

Clothes shop USC is in the hands of administrators and may be among 15 of the chain to close.

Pottery firm Waterford Wedgwood, which has a concession in Fenwick, is also in administration.

The company’s roots stretch back 250 years to the foundation of Wedgwood pottery.

Administrators say attempts to restructure the business have been abandoned and they are now trying to find a buyer.

Joint administrator, Angus Martin, said they would be continuing to trade while seeking a sale.

The Ireland-based business, known for its Wedgwood pottery, Royal Doulton and Waterford crystal, has 19 retail stores in the United Kingdom as well as 120 retail concessions, and employs more than 2,500 manufacturing staff world-wide.