A factory has closed down with the loss of more than 20 jobs after a desperate last-ditch bid to find a buyer failed.

Half of the 50-strong workforce at Stanway fan-makers Matthews and Yates was laid off in February, after bosses called in the administrators.

They hoped to sell the Peartree Way company as a going concern and save the remaining jobs.

No rescue package could be put together, despite interest from the UK and abroad.

On Friday, the remaining workers were also axed, after being told the company had ceased trading.

Bob Eccleston, of insolvency firm KJ Watkin, said: "We went in to see if it was possible to sell it as a going concern but, unfortunately, it wasn't, and it came to an end on Friday.

"I am afraid they lost their jobs, and it has shut down for trading."

Workers will get their wages and holiday pay, but will have to claim any other insolvency payments from the Government.

The company had specialised in heating and ventilation fans for industrial and commercial premises.