UNION bosses are writing to the Government over the future of the failed Life & Style fashion chain established from the ashes of the former Ethel Austin chain.

Usdaw has spoken out against former Ethels and Life & Style owner Elaine McPherson, the Manchester-based businesswoman rumoured to be eyeing a third buy-out of the firm in as many years.

Ahead of writing to the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills, the union said it is extremely concerned at the prospect of Ms McPherson being permitted to run the company again.

It has written to Life & Style’s administrators – RSM Tenon – to request they ensure any prospective buyer proves they can run the business effectively and provide a long- term sustainable future for its employees.

John Gorle, Usdaw National Officer, said: “Our immediate concern is to safeguard the jobs of as many of Life & Style’s loyal and hardworking staff as possible and we have urged the administrators to keep stores open and allow as much time as possible for a buyer to be found.

“However, we are extremely concerned by reports that the previous owner may be involved in taking the business out of administration for a third time.