Staff at Newham branches of Clinton Cards face an uncertain future after the chain went into administration.

The group has stores in East Ham, the Stratford Centre and in Gallions Reach, Beckton. It employs more than 8,000 staff nationwide.

It has now been put up for sale after running up �130 million in losses and costs after its purchase of the Birthdays chain in 2004.

Workers at Clinton Cards in High Street North said they were in the dark over what will happen next.

“No-one has told us anything,” one said. “We only know what’s in the news.”

Administrators Zolfo Cooper have admitted some stores may have to close to make the business financially viable while they seek a buyer.

Peter Saville, from the firm, said: “Recently, Clintons has been faced with extremely challenging trading conditions, particularly in its Birthdays subsidiary.

“Despite evaluating ways to restructure its business, Clintons was unfortunately unable to secure adequate support or funding for its restructuring plans.

“We will continue to trade the business whilst we undertake a full marketing exercise to find buyers for all or parts of the Group so that the best possible outcome can be achieved for stakeholders.”