THE York store of clothing retailer Ark has been rescued as JD Sports buys the business out of administration.

The Coppergate store is among ten stores which have been rescued in the deal, although four "uneconomic" stores have been closed in Norwich, Cambridge, Merry Hill, and Manchester.

The business, which sells its own brands and other young fashion brands is headquartered in Leeds and will retain its existing office and management team.

The sale of the business from the administrators of Rett Retail Ltd, Begbies Traynor, secures the jobs of 160 of Ark’s 200 employees.

David Acland, partner at Begbies Traynor and joint administrator with Lila Thomas, said: “This sale has protected a large number of vital jobs in the retail sector.

“At the same time, it enables JD Sports to continue its ambitious expansion plans, following on as it does from other key strategic acquisitions earlier in the year.

“It is no secret that many retail businesses are facing a hugely challenging environment at the moment, and this deal is a welcome piece of good news for the sector.”

Tom Edge, director of Rett Retail and Ark Fashion, added: “Becoming part of the JD group is the best deal for all those involved in Rett Retail and we look forward to working with them for an exciting future.”

A spokesperson for JD Sports Fashion Ltd, said: “We are delighted to have added the Ark fascia to our young fashion offer which brings with it some leading brands and a successful own brand offer.

“We look forward to supporting the established management team to develop the business further.”