AN unknown number of people have been left out of pocket after a national photographic firm went out of business.

Olan Mills Photography went into administration on Thursday, December 14, and the studio in The Tything, Worcester, closed.

Customers are now being told they will not get refunds.

Claire Rickett, of Cranham Drive, Warndon, Worcester, was shocked to discover that the company had ceased trading.

The 27-year-old and her partner Shaun Adams, aged 39, went to the studio at the start of December.

They had paid £280 to have photographs of their youngest daughter, 10-month-old Morgan Adams, taken for Christmas.

We went as a one-off. They gave us a CD with the pictures on, but we had paid for the prints and for one on canvas.'' Miss Ricketts was upset that the company had not informed them and was worried that they would not get their photos or be offered a refund. However, a statement on the Olan Mills website said customers who had paid and already had their pictures taken would receive their photographic packages by the second week of January.

At the end of the day we want either our money back or the photos we paid for. I'm pleased with what they are now promising.'' The statement on the Olan Mills website read: Following an initial review of the business and its finances, the administrators regret to inform you that the companies (Olan Mills Holding Ltd and Olan Mills Ltd) are unfortunately no longer able to continue trading.

All stores have now closed and we are unable to fulfil any outstanding orders or appointments.'' Customers owed money are being told to register their claims in writing to the administrators at 2 Cornwall Street, Birmingham, B3 2DL. For more information they can call customer services on 08457 585351.

Angela Lloyd-James, who runs her photographic business just down the road from Olan Mills, is offering those customers who are unable to get a refund a special discounted session at her studio. For details call her on 01905 22956.