A Cornish meat processing business has ceased trading, it emerged yesterday.
Kensey Vale Meats, based in Launceston, North Cornwall, had processed and distributed meat to independent butchers, farm shops and bakeries throughout Devon and Cornwall.
But the firm, which started up in 1997, appears to have closed its doors late last week. No-one from Kensey Vale Meats was available for comment and phone messages left yesterday were not returned.
It is not known how many people have lost their jobs or why the firm has shut down.
However, a message on the company's phone said: "Unfortunately we have ceased trading but if you would like to speak to us please feel free to leave a message and we'll get back to you as soon as we can."
News of the firm's demise came as a blow to the community. Launceston councillor Alex Folkes said it was "a sad day for our town when businesses close and jobs are lost".
He added: "I asked the new cabinet member for a meeting to discuss business in Launceston last week and this news only goes to emphasise how much we need to pull together."