A popular home and garden retailer which has stores in Exeter and Taunton has entered administration.

Wilko has 400 shops across the country and employs 12,500 people, whose jobs will now be at risk.

In an open letter, the CEO of Wilko, Mark Jackson, said: "Over the past six months we've been open with all our stakeholders including our team members that we've been considering options to accelerate a turnaround plan given that we needed to make significant changes to the way we operate to restore confidence and stabilise our business. 

"We left no stone unturned when it came to preserving this incredible business but must concede that with regret, we've no choice but to take the difficult decision to enter into administration.

"I'd like to take this opportunity on behalf of the directors and the Wilkinson family to thank all of our customers and our hardworking team members across our stores, logistics and support centre who remained loyal to wilko. 

"It's been an honour to have worked alongside you all as we fought to realise and to maximise the significant opportunities that existed to re-establish a profitable Wilko."

PwC has been appointed as administrators and will continue to look for buyers to save the store.

The Exeter branch of Wilko is located in the Guildhall Shopping centre.