FOUR shops and the online platform of fashion brand Ness Clothing have been saved for an undisclosed sum.

The Scottish firm went into administration in December, putting more than 100 jobs at risk at its 15 UK branches and four concessions. Yesterday Edinburgh-based Kiltane Group announced it had acquired its four shops and its online and wholesale arms.

The deal, which includes two Ness shops in Edinburgh and others in York and Keswick, saves 35 staff and reinforces Kiltane’s portfolio. The company, which focuses on luxury woollens, already employs 75 people at its stores in the capital and aims to reach out to new markets.

Managing director Mark Keane said: “The addition of Ness to our existing stores builds considerably on our business infrastructure and capabilities, both in retail outlets in prime locations and online.

“It also safeguards the jobs of a very experienced and talented retail team while consolidating our position for future growth.”