The firm was founded by Colin Briscoe in 1993, who four years ago received a lifetime achievement award from trade body The Civil Engineering Contractors Association for his work in the region.

Insolvency specialist Leonard Curtis has taken over at the regional contractor which according to last year’s accounts employed 25 staff.

Briscoe Construction worked primarily for utility, water and highways clients across the region on projects up to £2m. It also carried out work for the industrial sector and within harbours, ports and coastal areas.

The firm has also branched out into building works for local regional councils and the National Trust.