Builders merchant Thompson was placed in the hands of KPMG earlier this week.

All ten branches of Thompson and TAPS have now been closed with the loss of 80 jobs.

Twenty staff have been kept on by KPMG while they seek to sell the business.

Mark Firmin, joint administrator and regional head of restructuring at KPMG, said: “It has become clear that the trading and cash flow challenges that led to insolvency for Thompsons builders merchants have similarly impacted on TAPS, resulting in our appointment.

“Outlets will be closed today as staff assist us in our assessment of the business.”

Any party interested in acquiring some or all of either or both businesses should contact James Lumb on behalf of the administrators immediately at james.lumb@kpmg.co.uk