FOUR companies who were at risk following the closure of a 269-year-old construction and restoration firm have been saved, securing the future of around 50 jobs.

The Szerelmey Group, based in Vauxhall, have protected the futures of Lowery Roofing, Hare and Ransome Joinery, Anelay Building and Conservation North East and Anelay Building and Conservation North West.

Earlier this month, York-based William Anelay Limited ceased trading, resulting in 126 job losses.

The Szerelmey Group is a long-established family business that has specialised in stoneworkand restoration work since 1855 and has helped save numerous companies in the last three years.

Charles Anelay, chairman and special projects director and eighth generation of the Anelay family to work at William Anelay Limited, said: “This acquisition removes all the uncertainty and brings fresh stability to these businesses by securing jobs with traditional craft skills and providing continuity for our clients.

“As such, it is very good news for our staff, good news for York and our region, and the North West, and good news for the heritage restoration sector.”

William Anelay’s work on Roker Pier included cleaning the lighthouse and repairing brass windows, while it previously carried out roofing repairs to Bowes Museum, in Barnard Castle, County Durham.

The business also featured in BBC Two show, Hairy Builders, which looked at some of the UK’s oldest and most architecturally complex large buildings.