Bristol Cars has gone into administration and the hunt is on for a saviour to keep the company afloat.
Speaking to the BBC on Thursday evening, receiver Tom MacLennan has been reported thus: "While there have been a number of immediate redundancies due to the financial position of the company, we are maintaining the sales and service operations so customers will continue to be supported.
"We would urge any interested parties to make contact with us as quickly as possible and are confident that we can secure the future of this iconic British brand."
Bristol has made cars at its Filton factory since 1946, after starting life as an aircraft manufacturer. For much of its history as a car maker the company was owned by former racing driver Tony Crook - who shunned media attention and reportedly only sold cars to customers that he liked. More latterly Bristol was owned by enthusiast of the marque Toby Silverton who bought the company in 2001.
While early cars were renowned for engineering excellence (thanks in part to the company's aviation heritage), a lack of ongoing investment meant it survived in later years using outdated technology and the goodwill of a handful of enthusiastic customers who appreciated its unique handcrafted appeal. The launch of the Viper V10 powered Fighter in 2004 brought a short-lived resurgence of media interest, but actual sales numbers are not clear.
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