HEREFORD'S Phones 4u shop is closed today as the firm announced it is going into administration.

The High Town store has shut its doors, along with all other Phones 4u stores across the country, after news emerged that network operator EE had joined Vodafone in cutting ties with the retailer.

More than 5,500 jobs are at risk.

The company said its stores will be closed today pending a decision by the administrators on whether the business can be reopened for trading.

Phones 4u said the decision by EE not to renew its current contract, which is due to end in September next year, was a "complete shock" and meant it would be left without a single network partner after Vodafone said earlier this month that it would not extend its agreement.

Phones 4u chief executive David Kassler said last night: "Today is a very sad day for our customers and our staff.

"If the mobile network operators decline to supply us, we do not have a business.

"A good company making profits of over £100 million, employing thousands of decent people has been forced into administration.

"The great service we have provided should have guaranteed a strong future, but unfortunately our network partners have decided otherwise.

"The ultimate result will be less competition, less choice and higher prices for mobile customers in the UK."