SCORES of workers have lost their jobs after a meat firm collapsed.

Cleveland Meat Company Limited has ceased trading after falling into administration.

The company, based in Stockton, employed nearly 70 staff, and administrators say the majority have been made redundant.

The Northern Echo is aware of reports the firm was affected by a Food Standards Agency suspension over operational issues, which although lifted last month, affected its bottom line.

The business, which had an annual turnover of around £38m, was formed in 1973 and operated an abattoir and boning site.

It was known for supplying meat to wholesalers across the UK and Europe, as well as being a major direct-from-farm and market meat buyer.

According to its website, it had supplied London’s Smithfield Market for more than 30 years and had built up export links with clients in France, Germany, Holland, Greece, and Italy.

However, RSM Restructuring Advisory was appointed after it fell into difficulty, with joint administrators Steven Ross and Allan Kelly tasked with overseeing the process.

Mr Ross, a partner at RSM in Newcastle, said talks are now underway with stakeholders and creditors to provide support over amounts owed.

He added: “The company ceased trading shortly before our appointment and the majority of employees were made redundant.

“Regrettably, it has not been possible to recommence trade and we are working with the stakeholders to ensure that we generate as much value as possible for the creditors.

“In addition, our team have been on site to assist the employees in making their claims to the Insolvency Service for any amounts owed to them, and dealing with creditor queries.”

The Echo understands farmers and livestock markets will be among the largest creditor groups.

Back in 2013, The Northern Echo reported how the business had been fined £13,000 for a series of breaches of meat hygiene regulations designed to prevent high-risk animal products entering the food chain.

At the time, the firm said it had never been prosecuted before and never had a complaint against its reputation, despite the industry being heavily regulated.

  • Did you work at the factory? Email newsdesk@nne.co.uk