A well-known Lancashire cheesemaker and cheesemonger has fallen into administration with dozens of staff losing their jobs.

69 members of staff at Singleton’s Dairy Limited, in Longridge near Preston, have been made redundant, with a further 12 kept on as part of the administration.

Covid-19 and rising costs have been blamed for the popular company’s fall into administration.

On Monda, August 22, Kroll’s Andrew Knowles and Steven Muncaster were appointed as joint administrators of the business.

Andrew, senior director at Kroll, said: “Singleton's has a long-established track record for its products.

“However, like many companies in this sector, it has had to manage the effects of Covid-19, the rising costs of milk and other additional overheads.

“The company had attempted to sell the business as a going concern prior to the appointment however this was unsuccessful.” 

The family-run business has been handcrafting award winning cheeses in the UK for more than 80 years, but the family’s connection with cheesemaking dates back to the 18th century.

Lancashire Telegraph: The Queen visiting Singleton’s Dairy, in Longridge, back in 2008The Queen visiting Singleton’s Dairy, in Longridge, back in 2008

It supplies produce to both retail and wholesale, as well as exporting to more than 30 countries worldwide.

Some of their products, including their ‘Probiotic Cheddar’ and ‘Parlick Fell’, have even secured awards.

Back in 2008, the Queen even paid a visit to the business and was given a tour of the site.