ICONIC retailer Dawsons Music has been rescued in a deal which will see the Chester city centre store saved from closure.

The business has been bought out of administration by Manchester entrepreneur Andrew Oliver and his wife Karen Oliver.

All six of its UK stores – including the Pepper Street premises – will stay open, meaning 75 staff will keep their jobs.

The retailer will trade under a new company name, Dawsons Music & Sound Ltd, which is owned and operated by Andrew and Karen's existing company, Arranged Musical Options Ltd.

Established in 1898 in Warrington, Dawsons is one of the oldest and largest retailers of musical instruments and equipment in the UK.

Andrew said: "I’m excited to be taking on such a well-established brand with a strong heritage and huge potential. It would have been a huge loss for a business that is so well known and loved to close its doors for good.

"My wife and I are relishing the opportunity to lead such a strong team at Dawsons. Both businesses completely complement each other."

Paul Tyrer and Steven Percy, partners in the corporate and real estate teams at Cheshire based SAS Daniels Solicitors, advised Andrew on the deal.

Paul said: "I am delighted that we were able to rescue this historic brand and preserve so many jobs. Andrew has more than 21 years experience in the musical instrument sector and over 30 years experience as a musician.

"In that time he has developed a close network of contacts across the globe. This is a fantastic opportunity for him to drive Dawsons forward and I am sure that his strong leadership and passion for music will enable the business to flourish."