THIRTY-nine people have lost their jobs after a Dorset building company went into administration.

Wessex Building Services, part of the Wessex Group of companies, blamed difficult trading conditions for the decision to appoint administrators.

Bosses said the group’s other companies – dealing in alarms, electrical systems and property maintenance – were in good health.

The last accounts filed by the company were for the year ending February 28, 2017, but saw its profit on ordinary activities before tax fall from £585,528 to £388,321.

Wessex Group director Simon Morgan said: “Wessex Building Services Ltd has experienced some difficult trading conditions over the last 12 months, including a significant loss on a recent construction project and numerous late payments.

“Despite investment in new management and a cash injection of £800,000 by Wessex Group, we have not been able to sustain the business and regrettably have had to file for administration.

“Our overriding concern is for the 39 affected staff and we are offering them our help and support to secure new jobs as quickly as possible.

“While Wessex Building Services has struggled to operate in the major construction industry, our other group companies, Wessex Fire & Security and Wessex Electricals, incorporating Wessex Property Care, remain successful and are in excellent health.”

In the accounts published in 2017, the company reported a “mixed year”, adding: “As predicted, the size of the UK solar energy industry has been significantly reduced by the reduction in government subsidy and our business development team continue to search out new markets, forging new relationships and cement[ing] existing ones.

“The company is in excellent financial health and no significant risks have been identified. We are acutely aware of our need to retain key customers and continue to invest in good contract management and customer service initiatives.”

At that time, it employed 70 staff, up from 57 per cent the previous year.

Alexander Kinninmonth of RSM Restructuring Advisory in Chandlers Ford, Hampshire, has been appointed as the administrator.