House of Fraser's iconic Kendals store on Deansgate to close in January

House of Fraser says it is to close the iconic Kendals store in Manchester.

The doors of the House of Fraser store on Deansgate remained closed past its usual opening time this morning - after arriving for work staff were given the news that it will close on January 28. Some staff were reportedly seen in tears.

A sign on the doors of the store today read:

House of Fraser has been in financial difficulty with several stores closing down across the UK, and Sports Direct's Mike Ashley took over in a £90m deal, just as it looked like going into administration.

The flagship Manchester store was spared the axe - until now.

A spokesman from House of Fraser said:

The building has held a special place in Manchester hearts for decades, and even now is still best known as Kendals.

Sir Richard Lees, the leader of Manchester City Council said: