Administrators have been appointed at a farming business which is behind a well-known Cheshire attraction, placing more than 100 jobs at risk.
Buyers are now being sought for Stockley Farm Partnership, which specialises in arable and dairy goods, and also operates as an open farm. It is set in almost 700 acres in Northwich.
The business has suffered in recent times as a result of reducing profit margins, together with ongoing investment required for general maintenance on the farm.
Consequently, legal action was taken by a creditor and the partners had proposed a voluntary arrangement, which was rejected.
As a result, the partners and other stakeholders took the necessary steps to protect the company. This led to the appointment of the administrators.
Siann Huntley and Andy Beckingham, of Leonard Curtis Business Rescue & Recovery, have been appointed joint administrators of Stockley Farm.
Stockley Farm remains open for business and is continuing to trade as usual for the foreseeable future whilst the situation is assessed.
The farm is a well-known local attraction and has won a number of awards and accreditations for work it has carried out in the community.
Ms Huntley said: “While the position is being assessed, regrettably a small number of the casual workforce will not be continuing with the business moving forward. We would encourage any parties with an interest in the business to contact us as soon as possible.”
