Jobs cut at troubled music firm

Sound control is to close down its internet and telesales operation

More than 150 jobs are to go at a Fife-based musical instrument chain after it went into administration.

Directors at Sound Control, which is based in Dunfermline, had been trying to sell elements of the troubled firm.

The UK-wide chain of 26 shops has been struggling to compete against other internet-based companies.

Administrators Deloitte have decided to shut 10 stores and close down the firm's internet and telesales arm, making 163 people redundant.

Largest retailer

Sound Control also trades as Media Tools, Turnkey and Soho Sound House.

It is the largest musical instrument retailer in the UK, with a £50m annual turnover, employing 338 people.

John Reid from Deloitte said: "Following a review of the group's operations, the administrators have made the difficult decision to close 10 of the group's trading locations and bring to an end its telesales and internet sales activities.

"These changes to the group's operations have resulted in 163 redundancies with immediate effect.

"The administrators welcome interest in the business and assets of the group and are already in discussions with a number of interested parties to explore a possible sale.

"However, at the same time as they explore sale options, the administrator will continue to trade the remaining 16 stores."