Spare a thought for the little businesses standing in the shadows while the spotlight shines on how big firms are performing in the recession.

Besides 1200 lay-offs at Nissan in Sunderland, today’s big firm to flounder is Sofa Workshop that may go in to administration within 24 hours if directors cannot sell the business.

A quick trip around the country shows how the recession is biting deep in to the economy.

Eaton Electric, which makes miniature circuit breakers on Anglesey, has confirmed it is to close with the loss of 265 jobs. The owners cite the company cannot compete with cheap exports from abroad.

Sadie The Bra Lady, a lingerie shop in Hanover Road, Scarborough, is with six job losses. Bra expert Sadie Ayton, 71,who started the business from scratch in 1970, said she is “devastated” at having to close the shop.

Blackburn’s oldest shop has announced plans to close, blaming the credit crunch for a decline in sales. Mercer’s has been in Blackburn for 169 years, selling toys, household goods and hardware. Nineteen jobs will go.

THE company behind the ill-fated Lapland New Forest Christmas attraction has gone into voluntary liquidation. More than 5,000 customers have demanded refunds.

Punchinello's in Forman Street, Nottingham, which has been a restaurant since 1890, has gone into voluntary liquidation making 15 people redundant.

The Cast Restaurant, Bar and Deli at Nottingham Playhouse has also gone into administration. It is not yet certain if any jobs are at risk.

Tchibo, which sells coffee, cakes and household products, has also announced it will close sometime this year. The German firm will axe 50 shops in the UK, and stop supplying 100 coffee shops in Sainsbury’s and Somerfield’s supermarkets.

Crofton Pallets is closing four sites in Grimsby, Chapelhill, Featherstone and Gillingham. The company is also downsizing at their Huntingdon site. The number of jobs going has yet to be confirmed.