The Warrington based contractor employed more than 150 staff and was formed in 1898.

One manager said: “Today’s a sad day as Harry Fairclough’s close their 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.”

Latest results filed at Companies House show the firm made a pre-tax profit of £118,000 from turnover of £38m during the year to March 31 2018.

Last month Fairclough retained its place on the North West Construction Hub’s £120m low-value framework.