JOBS could be saved at a high street clothing retailer, with stores in Bolton and Leigh, with a management buyout.

Proposals for a takeover at Peacocks have been put together by a senior e-commerce manager there, with backing from a private investor.

Administrators had been called in for the stricken chain on November 18.

If the move went ahead, it could save positions at their stores off Trinity Street, Bolton, and at the Spinning Gate Centre in Leigh.

But the deal has come too late for their store at Mill Gate in Bury, which closed a few weeks ago.

Supporters of the takeover say they plan to enhance the chain's digital offering and better customer service in store.

A spokesman said: "The MBO team is confident that with the right investment, they can drive forward innovation, bring about brand recovery and achieve a quick return to financial sustainability."

The wider chain, headquartered in South Wales, has 470 stores nationwide, with 4,900 staff, including nearby stores in Chorley, Eccles and Salford.