A seaside town’s Jack Wills store has reopened, hours after bailiffs were seen changing locks and warning staff away.

Eastern Daily Press: The Sheriffs Office has served Jack Wills in Southwolds High Street with a forfeiture of lease notice. Photo: Contributed.The Sheriffs Office has served Jack Wills in Southwolds High Street with a forfeiture of lease notice. Photo: Contributed. (Image: Archant)

At around 6.30am today (Thursday, August 8), The Sheriffs Office served the fashion retailer's Southwold branch with a Forfeiture of Lease notice.

MORE: Aldi team up with Suffolk sushi maker in huge dealWitnesses described hearing the High Street store's alarm system ringing out during the early hours and the locks being changed.

The notice, which has been placed in the shop's window, stated: "Under the terms and conditions of your lease we as authorised agents on behalf of the landlord have this day re-entered these premises and the lease is hereby determined.

"Any attempt by you or your agents to enter the demised premises will result in criminal/civil proceedings being taken against you."

Eastern Daily Press: The Sheriffs Office has served Jack Wills in Southwolds High Street with a forfeiture of lease notice. Photo: Contributed.The Sheriffs Office has served Jack Wills in Southwolds High Street with a forfeiture of lease notice. Photo: Contributed. (Image: Archant)

However, the store was open as usual by 4.30pm.

It has been a difficult week for Jack Wills.

On Monday, the struggling chain entered administration and was bought by Mike Ashley's Sports Direct.

The £12.75m deal saw the billionaire take control of Jack Wills' stock, 100 stores and its distribution centre.

Jack Wills has been contacted for comment.