Ballymena-based JBE Mechanical Electrical has entered into administration, leaving 58 jobs in danger.

The electrical and mechanical contractor is set to close after recently suffering losses on work in Scotland.

JBE has been operating since 1983 and worked on various projects in the education, healthcare and retail sectors across the UK and Republic of Ireland.

Founder and managing director John Blair said: "It is with the deepest regret and profound sadness that we have been forced to take the step of placing the company in administration."

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JBE acts as a subcontractor to some of Northern Ireland's largest construction firms, and worked on major jobs such as the Victoria Square shopping complex in Belfast and Selfridges department store in London.

According to accounts from last year, the firm was "severely impacted" by the loss of several contracts that were being managed in its Scottish office, before it closed in December 2016.

Mr Blair added: "In recent years, despite the challenging market conditions, we worked relentlessly to maintain a profitable business, however the struggle became overwhelming due to significant losses incurred on several Scottish contracts and we could no longer maintain our position.

"I would like to place on record my appreciation of the skills, and expertise of JBE's hard working employees and recognise their professionalism and loyalty throughout."

(JG/CM)