ADMINISTRATORS of a Selkirk car showroom remain hopeful of finding a buyer.

Stuart Robb and Michelle Elliot - of Leonard Curtis Business Rescue & Recovery - were appointed joint administrators of Leven Cars Group on Wednesday.

Staff at the Selkirk and Edinburgh dealerships were sent home after turning up for work in the morning.

But none of the 139 employees across the Borders and capital sites have been made redundant as attempts continue to find a buyer for the business.

Joint administrator Stuart Robb said: “We are currently assessing the company’s financial position with a view to seeking a buyer for all or parts of the business.

"This is a unique opportunity to acquire a business with a strong reputation, excellent customer base, and a highly knowledgeable and loyal workforce.”

The Selkirk showroom, which employed 24 staff, acts as a dealership for both Kia and Suzuki.

And there will be a presence at the Dunsdale Road garage over the coming days to deal with any customer queries.

Local MSP Rachael Hamilton has expressed her disappointment at the company going into administration.

She told us: “This is worrying news from Leven Car Company, which impacts the Suzuki dealership in Selkirk.

“The potential loss of 24 jobs in the town is very concerning and I will be contacting Leven Car Company in the coming days to discuss what can be done to ensure that job losses are kept to a minimum.

“With the news coming so soon after Christmas, this is another huge blow to Selkirk and I hope that the business can be saved.”

Directors of Leven blame a difficult two years of trading for this week's decision to enter administration.

Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk MP John Lamont has urged concerned staff to get in touch with his office.

He said: "Any employees with concerns can get in touch with me. I will be working with Scottish Borders Council and others to ensure that the necessary support is put in place for those affected by this news

“This is deeply disappointing news at a time when the town is undergoing significant regeneration and business improvement."