More familiar names from the heart of Gloucester Quays and Cheltenham are in danger as the owner of Bella Italia and Cafe Rouge prepares to bring in administrators.

Around 6,000 jobs are at risk after the Casual Dining Group, which also owns Las Iguanas and other smaller chains, filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators.

Bella Italia has restaurants at the Quays and on the Promenade in Cheltenham, which also houses a branch of Cafe Rouge.

The notice provides protection from creditors for 10 working days with the whole group placed into administration or a likely restructuring which would see some outlets close with smaller claims such as Huxleys, Oriel and Belgo thought to be most at risk.

A CDG spokesman said: "This is an unprecedented situation for our industry and, like many other companies across the UK, the directors of Casual Dining Group are working closely with our advisers as we consider our next steps.

"These notifications are a prudent measure in light of the company's position and the wider situation.

"These notifications will also protect the company from any threatened potential legal action from landlords while we review the detail of the government advice and formulate a plan for the company in these difficult times."

The news comes as a rescue package emerges for another troubled restaurant at Gloucester Quays.

Ranjit Singh Boparan, owner of the Giraffe restaurant business, is poised to buy close to half of the Carluccio's chain which has been in administration since March.

The deal is expected to include about 30 Carluccio's outlets.

Mr Boparan's food group also includes Ed's Easy Diner, Fox's Biscuits and the turkey producer Bernard Matthews.