THE 'intellectual property' of a Glasgow-based social networking brand is to be auctioned off following the firm's provisional liquidation.

As reported in last night's Evening Times, WeeWorld, which had its headquarters in Blythswood Square, went into administration after reportedly encountering cash flow problems,

Now the firm's instant messaging service, chat-based avatars and mobile apps are to be sold by Glasgow intellectual property specialists Metis Partners.

The sale is expected to generate global interest from the social media, apps and gaming industry,

Nat Baldwin, of Metis Partners, said: "This brand has an excellent profile among the most attractive demographic target - teens and tweens worldwide.

"It is associated with major music stars, including Avril Lavigne, the Jonas Brothers and Taylor Swift and the sale - which is being accelerated - will attract major interest from global parties."

Launched in 2006, the site allowed players to create and design online characters, or "WeeMees", and join in a social network where they could buy virtual goods for their characters and chat with other users.

Aimed at teenagers, it has been downloaded tens of millions of times since its launch and has been promoted by celebrities including Alicia Keys and Justin Beiber.