Bowman, which was established in 1886, laid off most of its 53 staff just prior to being placed in the hands of administrators  FRP Advisory through a Company Voluntary Agreement.

Joint administrator Chris Stirland said: “The business is not in a position to trade and so we will begin the process of orderly wind down.”

The Stamford-based firm had an annual turnover of £10m to £14m working for national and local clients and speciailising in refurbishing heritage properties.

Bowman has worked on the refurbishment of Lincoln Castle and Ely Cathedral and an extension to Peterborough Library.

Last year chairman Peter Loft appointed a new managing director James Deacon to try to turn around the firm’s fortunes.

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