People have expressed concern over the future of The Body Shop.

It has been reported that the cosmetic and beauty shop may close a number of branches after private equity firm Aurelius, which bought the company in November, will appoint administrators for the company’s UK operation.

Since the news broke, people across Brighton - where the first-ever branch opened in 1976 - have expressed concern and sadness over its possible closure.

Jodie Mitchell said: "I love The Body Shop but can't afford to shop in there much at all now.

"Prices are beyond many people's reach these days. Sad times."

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Other people also agreed that the prices of the products meant it was no longer as popular as it once was.

Tracey Sutton said: "I used to shop in there years ago but the prices are just too much, I feel sorry for all the staff out of work."

Julie Forbes said: "Heartbreaking, how I wish we could turn the clocks back and get the brand back on track."

Although many people have been saddened by the news of the shop's uncertain future, others have agreed that the brand has "had its day".

David Jacobs said: "Times change."

A similar view was shared by Brian Ansell who said: "Had its day and founder sold up and it lost its way."

Anita Roddick opened the first store in Kensington Gardens, in the heart of North Laine, in 1976.

At the moment, there are around 200 stores in the UK, including one store in North Street, Brighton, as well as a branch in George Street in Hove.

The company also has six other stores across Sussex in Worthing, Horsham, Eastbourne, Crawley, Chichester and Hastings.