THE future of a Colchester sports bar is in doubt.

Administrators have been called in to Rileys with 15 of the 59 veunes shut immediately.

Others will continue to trade at the 44 remaining venues, including Colchester, while administrators consider the options.

More than 100 jobs have already been lost and another 400 are at risk.

Rileys, which specialises in snooker, pool, darts, gambling and screening sport, was set up in 1878.

Deloitte was appointed as administrators.

Partner Rob Harding said: “We are working to stabilise the business following our appointment while we consider our options for securing the best outcome for the company's creditors.

"The remaining sites continue to trade as normal and we appreciate the co-operation and support of the company's employees, landlords, customers and other key stakeholders."

Rileys Sports Bar, based in Long Wyre Street, Colchester, declined to comment.