Jobs are at risk after telecoms retailer Phones 4u announced it has entered administration.

The move comes after network operator EE joined Vodafone in cutting ties with the company.

There are two Phones 4u branches in Chingford, one in Walthamstow, one in Barkingside and one in Ilford.

There is also a branch in High Road, Loughton.

The company said its stores will be closed today, pending a decision by the administrators on whether the business can be reopened for trading.

Phones 4u said the decision by EE not to renew its current contract, which is due to end in September next year, was unexpected.

It left the company without a single network partner, after Vodafone earlier this month said it would not extend its agreement.

The company, which is owned by private equity firm BC Partners, has 550 stores across the UK, employing 5,596 people.

Phones 4u chief executive David Kassler said last night: "Today is a very sad day for our customers and our staff.

"If the mobile network operators decline to supply us, we do not have a business. A good company making profits of over £100 million, employing thousands of decent people has been forced into administration.

"The great service we have provided should have guaranteed a strong future, but unfortunately our network partners have decided otherwise. The ultimate result will be less competition, less choice and higher prices for mobile customers in the UK."

Staff have been asked to report to work as normal this morning as they will be briefed by management.