JOBS are under threat at the Ely branch of DVD rental chain Blockbuster after the company called in administrators.

As well as its High Street branch in the city, Blockbuster also has 528 other stores and employs 4,190 staff across the UK. There was also a branch in Soham but it was closed in 2011.

Deloitte, the accountancy firm, has taken over running of all outlets and added that all stores would remain open for business while a buyer is sought.

Lee Manning, from Deloitte’s, said: “We are working closely with Blockbuster UK’s suppliers and employees to ensure the business has the best possible platform to secure a sale, preserve jobs and generate as much value as possible for all creditors.

“The core of the business is still profitable and we will continue to trade as normal in both retail and rental whilst we seek a buyer for all or parts of the business as a going concern.

“During this time gift cards and credit acquired through Blockbuster’s trade-in scheme will be honoured towards the purchase of goods.”