Six Scottish sites close as timber firm goes bust

National Timber has been a leading supplier of wood to the construction industry

A total of 169 jobs have been lost in Scotland after a large timber firm was placed in administration.

National Timber Group is based in Sheffield, but many of its 47 sites are located in Scotland, supplying wood to the construction industry and joiners.

Across Britain, 561 people were made redundant on Wednesday but administrators said they were were "hopeful" of finding buyers for the remaining business.

Of 13 outlets closed in recent days, six are Scottish - Dumbarton, Forfar, Newton Stewart, Stirling, Hawkhill in Edinburgh and Anniesland in Glasgow.

National Timber is the UK's largest independent timber distribution and processing group, operating a number of brands including Rembrand, Scotia Roofing, and Orchard Timber Products.

Administrators Alvarez & Marsal said they were hopeful for finding a buyer for all or parts of the group.

Joint administrator Michael Magnay said: "Regrettably, the company's liquidity challenges have led to a number of immediate redundancies.

"We are committed to supporting the affected employees through the redundancy process.

"We appreciate the support and patience of the highly skilled workforce in difficult circumstances, particularly at this time of year"