CREWE: Administrators of Focus DIY that failed last week are confident the business can be sold.

"Focus DIY is continuing to trade all stores and it is very much business as usual," says Simon Allport, administrator.

"Focus's strong seasonal product offerings are being replenished and the majority of suppliers continue to show their support for continued trading," he said.

"Stores have been trading at record levels, and well above budget, over the last week, and continue to offer very competitive prices across the full product range.

"We're grateful to all the group's loyal customers, suppliers and employees for their continued support.

"We have received a fantastic level of interest in the business and will continue to seek offers for the sale of the business," Mr Allport says.

On Friday Kingfishers purchased 31 of Focus's 175 stores for £23m, buying them more time to try and find a buyer for the rest of the empire.