The Enquirer reported last month that the owners of Norman & Underwood were working with Begbies Traynor to find a buyer.

But Begbies Traynor has now been appointed administrator at the business after no suitable offers came forward.

The administrator said: “Unfortunately, it was not possible to find a purchaser for the Leicester-based glazing, metal roofing and cladding and building conservation specialist. The company has, therefore, ceased to trade and 49 staff have been made redundant.

“The property and remaining assets are being sold via Sanderson & Weatherall (property) and Eddisons (chattel assets).”

Norman & Underwood was one of the UK’s most established roofing, structural glazing and building conservation contractors having been established in 1825.

Its clients ranged from the largest construction companies to private individuals, in sectors including education, commercial, retail, leisure, healthcare, ecclesiastical and residential.

Originally specialising in general plumbing and glazing, the company evolved to provide architectural and structural glazing, metal roofing and cladding, and building conservation services including leadwork and stained glass restoration.

The firm has worked with major contractors including Kier Wates, Willmott Dixon and Balfour Beatty.