The Inverness self-build home business and its sister company Roy Homes Timber Frame Ltd ceased trading this week with the loss of 17 jobs.

Administrators FRP Advisory said the move was the only option as the businesses ran into “severe financial problems”.

It added that staff of the 37-year-old firm will be helped to make claims to the Insolvency Service for arrears of pay, payment in lieu of notice of redundancy, and holiday pay.

However, Springfield has now offered a possible lifeline for those facing redundancy.

Springfield Properties HR manager, Heather Henderson, said: “We’re saddened to hear that 17 workers and their families have been affected by housebuilder Roy Homes falling into administration.

“Springfield is always on the lookout for reliable and skilled tradesmen to join the team. With work starting on site for six new developments in the coming months, we are in a strong position in the property industry. We welcome any enquiries from those with skills that will be able to contribute to the success of the business. If we can help, we will.

“Interested tradesmen should contact Jaide in our Elgin office on 01343 552 550.”

Another sister company, Roy Homes Developments Ltd, which shared a common management team with Roy Homes Ltd, has made an offer to the administrators to acquire the assets of the stricken firms.

Chris Barnett, managing director of Roy Homes Developments Ltd, which continues to trade, said: “We’re working on a positive basis with the administrators and have made an offer in terms of which we hope to reach agreement to acquire the land bank, vehicles, contracts, premises and other assets of Roy Homes Ltd and Roy Homes Timber Frame Ltd.”