JJB to close after rival takes over

One of Wolverhampton's biggest sports shops is closing down.

JJB in Queen Street is shutting its doors, to be taken over by its arch rival Sports Direct. Prices at the store have been cut to sell off stock.

The shop was closed yesterday but reopened this morning with signs in windows announcing the sale.

Branch manager Jamie Ward said today it was swapping brands to become Sport Direct, adding: "We'll still be open, just not as JJB."

Competition from the discounter Sports Direct has put JJB under severe pressure and a downturn in retail last year damaged the whole sportswear industry.

Figures today also reveal general gloom on the High Street, with sales down for shops in February.

Shoppers have been buffeted by surging food and petrol costs, rising bills, and the prospect of more expensive mortgages.

JJB has also been hit by a lack of merchandise sales after England failed to qualify for Euro 2008.