A TEIGNBRIDGE travel company has closed, blaming the impact of the coronavirus lockdown.

The director of Abbot Coach Travel Limited said the company was closing with immediate effect and the loss of 11 jobs.

He said the business, which was incorporated in 1998, had suffered a significant reduction in turnover this year as a direct result of Covid-19 and was impacted following the sad and unfortunate passing earlier this year of the director’s father who was also a fellow director.

The company operated across the South West providing a coach hire, bus services to schools and colleges, as well as day trips to tourist attractions both local and further afield.

The director said: ‘Whilst some companies have been able to make changes so they can continue to compete post the Covid-19 lockdown, unfortunately for us this was simply not possible.

‘As such, sadly I had no alternative but to cease trading.’

Michelle Weir, of Devon business recovery specialists Lameys, is assisting with an orderly wind down of the company’s affairs.

A formal liquidation process is required, but cannot begin until the deceased director’s estate has been dealt with. Creditors of the company, which include those who have paid deposits for day trips, will have received a letter from Lameys.

Those who have paid a deposit for a day trip are strongly encouraged to contact their credit card provider to seek a refund, where possible.