MORE than 300 jobs in the region were under threat last night after the company behind two of the North-East's most famous department stores went into administration.

The future of Joplings, in Sunderland - which has traded in the city for more than 200 years - and Robbs in Hexham, Northumberland - which opened in 1819 - were uncertain last night after parent company Owen Owen hit financial trouble.

The group, which bought the two stores in 2005 for £8m, blamed the situation on "cash- flow difficulties".

Last night, financial firm Kroll was appointed as administrator, which said it was hopeful of finding a buyer for the stores.

About 140 people are employed at Robbs and a further 180 at Joplings.

However, David Thompson, chief executive of Owen Owen, insisted that both stores would remain open as usual while the firm assessed the situation.

"I would like to reassure customers that it is business as usual for the stores," he said. "I am proud of the company's heritage and the long-standing support that it has enjoyed for more than 100 years."

Philip Duffy, partner and joint administrator at Kroll's corporate advisory and restructuring group, said the business would be traded as a going concern.

"These department stores are strong local brands and we are therefore hopeful of securing the future of the business."