TROUBLED joinery firm, the West End Cabinet Company, has been sold for an undisclosed sum, safeguarding jobs.

The business, which employs 24 people at its factory on the Addison Industrial Estate, in Blaydon, Gateshead, has been acquired by Hadrian Group Limited.

The firm, and its parent company, Harry Kindred, went into receivership on April 17. The group blamed reduced margins and a shortage of quality work for its financial difficulties.

The company continued to trade while a team at professional services firm Deloitte looked for a buyer.

Joint administrative receiver, Neil Matthews, of Deloitte Newcastle, said yesterday: "We are pleased that the West End Cabinet Company has been sold as a going concern.

"The company currently employs 24 members of staff and this sale will safeguard the jobs of these highly skilled employees within the North-East.

"During the receivership process, customers of the company have been highly-supportive, recognising the quality of the products that were produced.

"This successful outcome is a testament to the hard work of the workforce and the receiver's staff during very difficult circumstances."

Building contractor Harry Kindred has ceased to continue. Several of its existing contracts, worth about £4.5m, have been taken on by builder Rok.