HIGH street chain The Body Shop is reportedly set to appoint administrators for the UK arm of its business.

The retailer, which has around 200 outlets in Britain - including at Bradford's Broadway shopping centre - is said to be poised to appoint administrators as early as next week.

The news, which was first reported by Sky News, could lead to "significant" job losses and store closures.

Experts said it would be another blow for the UK's struggling high streets.

Private equity firm Aurelius bought the cosmetics brand from Brazilian company Natura & Co in November in a deal worth up to £207million.

The Body Shop was founded by Anita Roddick and her husband Gordon nearly half a century ago.

Sky News said Aurelius and The Body Shop declined to comment.

The Telegraph & Argus approached both Aurelius and The Body Shop for a response - but was told "it's no comment".