The number of firms going out of business or seeking court protection in a bid to survive jumped 14%, to 347, in the last three months when compared to the first quarter of the year.

The number of companies going out of business, or needing court protection to survive is falling.

The number of company insolvencies is up since last year, but the figures overall are "somewhat stabalising".

LIQUIDATORS have been appointed to the holding company of high street retailer Pulse Accessories, but it is hoped that some of the 130 employees’ jobs can be saved through a sale of the company.