Computer firm to axe 275.

COMPUTER games firm Gameplay is to close its eight UK shops and axe 275 jobs across Europe as part of a restructuring plan announced today.

Gameplay, which specialises in providing games for computer users to download from the internet, said the cost-cutting exercise would enable it to reach profitability sooner.

As well as the closure of the eight shops selling boxed games, 54 jobs will be lost at the company's headquarters in London.

Call centre and distribution operations in Leeds will also be amalgamated.