50 jobs at risk as coach firm calls in administrators

TRANSPORT company Geldards Coaches has called in administrators after a major fire at their premises last month.

Leeds-based Geldards was founded in 1991, and has a fleet of 50 vehicles and 50 staff.

Bob Maxwell and Lee Lockwood of Begbies Traynor in Leeds were appointed as joint administrators of the coach company.

In August 2015, the firm’s premises off Whitehall Road in Farnley destroyed a large proportion of the firm’s coach repair workshop, damaging three vehicles.

The blaze was thought to be “welding-related” but investigations were continuing.

Joint administrator Bob Maxwell said: “Unfortunately, it is commonplace for companies subjected to a major fire not to survive and this is the case here.”

The administrators are now looking for a buyer for the business.

Mr Maxwell continued: “One of our key concerns has been attempting to minimise disruption to the services operated by Geldards Coaches, particularly the school routes it provides.

“We have spoken to all the customers and we are in the process of arranging to provide emergency cover where required. If parents are in any doubt, they should contact their school.”