June 27 - Struggling British women's fashion retailer Jane Norman has become the latest victim of a downturn in shopper spending on discretionary items, collapsing into administration.

Jane Norman accessories collection

A spokeswoman for business advisory firm Zolfo Cooper said on Monday it had been appointed administrator of the firm, which trades from over 200 stores and concessions in the UK and Ireland, employing over 1,600.

Press reports have said British department store group Debenhams may be interested in buying the Jane Norman brand and residual stock.

UK retailers, particularly those selling non-essential items, have been struggling as consumers grapple with rising prices, subdued wages growth and government cutbacks.

Last week home furnishings firm Habitat UK and the owner of Moben kitchens both went into administration.

(Reporting by James Davey; editing by Mark Potter)