WEST Fife politicians have expressed their concern at possible local job losses after retailer McColl's announced it had entered administration.

Around 16,000 jobs have been placed at risk across the UK after the convenience store, which has several West Fife outlets, announced it would be placed into administration.

McColl's said the company's lenders did not want to extend banking agreements that were keeping the business going.

Accountancy firm PriceWaterhouseCoopers has been appointed as administrators and will look for a buyer "as soon as possible".

Douglas Chapman, MP for Dunfermline and West Fife, said: “McColl’s has branches all across Scotland, including here in West Fife, and I’m concerned about the impact its collapse into administration could have on jobs locally.

“I’m aware of reports about a potential rescue deal, and I’m hopeful a resolution can be found which protects people’s jobs.

“In the meantime, my office is here to support any staff affected by today’s news.”

Dunfermline MSP Shirley-Anne Somerville plans to write to the retailers asking for answers.

"I know that this will be a deeply unsettling time for all McColl's employees, including those working at stores within Dunfermline and West Fife," she said.

"This is news that nobody wants to hear, especially while households are already feeling the strain due to the cost-of-living crisis.

"I will be writing to McColl's and seeking urgent clarification about plans for their local stores, and I would urge them to make every possible effort to protect the jobs of those employees in my constituency."