WARRINGTON-based contractor Harry Fairclough Construction has reportedly gone into administration after more than 120 years in business.

Headquartered on Howley Lane, the company was first founded in 1898 and employs around 150 people.

But staff were informed yesterday, Thursday, that the business would be folding – with workers taking to social media to highlight their plight.

Trade papers have reported that employees were sent home in the wake of the news.

One manager told the Construction Enquirer: “Today is a sad day as Harry Fairclough closes its doors after 120 years of trading.

“It’s been a great business to work for and we are all heartbroken, as we know the board tried their hardest to resist insolvency.

“We are also mindful that the devastation cascades to many innocent suppliers, subcontractors and their families.”

Harry Fairclough Construction’s accounts for the 2018/19 year have not yet been submitted to Companies House, having been due on December 31 2019.

In 2017/18, it made pre-tax profits of £118,000 with a turnover of £38million.

The company also has an office in West Yorkshire, but there was no answer on the phones this morning, Friday.

In a statement posted on Twitter, the Civil Engineering Contractors Association North West said: “More terrible news for our industry, as Harry Fairclough has gone into administration.

“CECA NW is here to help find vacancies for staff.

“Let's keep getting the message across – clients must increasingly recognise the pressures on contractors if they want their projects and the ones the public demands to be delivered.

“If more bona fide civils contractors like Harry Fairclough are pushed to closure, the only firms left for clients to use will be those without the accreditations and practices that keep our industry safe, innovative and effective.”

Harry Fairclough Construction has been approached for comment.