Attempts by one MG Rover enthusiast to buy a car from the collapsed manufacturer have stalled, after his local dealer sold out of new models in an apparent rush to snap them up after the firm went into administration.

John Davidson, a property consultant from Bulkeley in Cheshire, said it was "bizarre" that he could not buy a new Rover despite reports that some dealers had slashed prices.

Mr Davidson contacted the James Edwards dealership in Chester to ask about buying a Rover 75. He owns an 11-year-old Rover 200, and has always been happy with it.

"I went to the dealership in Chester but they had sold out of new Rovers completely. He had one or two older Rovers but they were more expensive than new ones and he didn't know if he would be able to get any more.

"The cars went within days of an announcement that new Rovers would be discounted at some dealerships."

The Chester dealership refused to comment.

Meanwhile, the Citizens Advice is to set up a series of public meetings to give information and advice to former workers at the MG Rover factory.

CAB Midlands regional manager Sue Wigley said: "Since the Rover car plant went into administration CAB advisers have been on hand to offer people independent, confidential information and advice on a wide range of issues."