NEWCASTLE company Ward Electrical was last night in liquidation with its 38 employees facing unemployment, The Northern Echo can reveal.

The firm, which has been in business for about 50 years, told its workforce on Tuesday afternoon of its financial difficulties and that liquidators would be taking control of the company.

Several workers are understood to have been called back from long-distance work to be told the news.

A total of 38 jobs are on the line at the company - which works on electrical installations in the leisure industry - as a result, including those of nine electrical apprentices, who range in experience from between two and four years.

Last night, the company, based on Newcastle Business Park, was in the hands of liquidators Tate Walker.

It was said to be "unlikely" that workers would be paid back pay they are owed, or be reimbursed for any expenses incurred while working away.

Unions were last night trying to help their members in the light of the news.

Ian Davies, of the Amicus union, said: "We will be trying to find alternative employment for these experienced personnel, who are highly regarded in the electrical contracting industry.

"We will also be trying to get employment for the apprentices, all of whom are quite experienced, and will be asking assistance from any company that can help out."

Last night, Tate Walker confirmed it was handling the case, but no one from the firm was available to comment.