Film rental chain Blockbuster has passed to administrators.

Accountancy firm, Deloitte, has been appointed to take over the company while it seeks a buyer.

It is believed the firm employs nine people at its Halstead branch.

A spokesman said: "We are working closely with 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.”

Full report in this week's Gazette.