THREE out of four of Blockbuster's south Bucks stores have avoided the initial axe list after the firm went into administration.

It has been announced that 129 of the video rental shops across the country will close but those in Marlow, Hazlemere and Beaconsfield have escaped – at least for now.

The store in Chesham, which was already due to shut before administrators were called in, is definitely going.

In total there are about 20 staff at these four Bucks Blockbuster stores.

Deloitte, which is handling the administration process, said further closures may be made in coming weeks.

It is currently reviewing the profitability of the store portfolio.

Lee Manning, Joint Administrator, added: “Having reviewed the portfolio with management, the store closure plan is an inevitable consequence of having to restructure the company to a profitable core which is capable of being sold.

"We would like to thank the company’s employees for their support and professionalism during this difficult time. We are also grateful to the customers for their continued support.”

Last week music and video chain HMV also went into administration affecting hundreds of stores and workers nationwide, including those in High Wycombe and an office in Marlow.