Utility contractor Avent Engineering goes into administration

Bristol-based utility contractor Avent Engineering has gone into administration.

The firm carries out maintenance and repair work for utility companies, and clients include National Grid, Wessex Water and BP.

Avent recently lost a Western Power distribution contract to Balfour Beatty which plunged the firm into serious financial difficulties.

Staff were told the news yesterday (Wednesday), and a number of subcontractors and suppliers have had their contracts cancelled.

Avent employs around 250 people.