Retailer Toys 'R' Us has put forward plans to close at least 26 UK stores, putting up to 800 jobs at risk.

The firm has instigated a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA), which bosses say will allow it to make changes to its store estate in a bid to secure fresh growth.

The firm has yet to reveal where closures will be made.

A spokeswoman told our sister site The Northern Echo that workers are being told about the changes this morning (Monday, December 4).

She added there will be no disruption for customers during the Christmas and New Year period.

The business has stores on Southernhay, Basildon and Lakeside Retail Park, Thurrock.

Steve Knights, managing director, said: "Like many UK retailers in today’s market environment, we need to transform our business so that we have a platform that can better meet customers’ evolving needs."

Store closures are expected to start in the spring.

More to follow