HISTORIC Warrington firm Dawsons Music has been saved from collapse.

The business, founded in the town more than 120 years ago and still headquartered on Centre Park, and its assets have been sold by administrators.

Warrington Guardian:

Dawsons' head office on Centre Park

It will continue to trade via a new company, Dawsons Music and Sound Ltd, owned and operated by Andrew Oliver of Arranged Musical Options Ltd.

And 75 jobs have been saved as a result of the buyout.

Rick Harrison, partner at KPMG and joint administrator, said: “Since the outset of our appointment, we have been struck by the affection that so many people hold for this iconic retailer.

“We are therefore delighted to have been able to conclude this sale to someone well-established within the musical instrument industry, which not only ensures the Dawsons Music business will continue but also safeguards employment for 75 members of staff.

“We wish the new team every success for the future.”

Dawsons closed its store on Sankey Street, the retailer’s first branch which opened in 1898, in the town centre last year.

Warrington Guardian:

The Sankey Street store in the 1910s

But it still has six branches in Manchester, Liverpool, Chester, Leeds, Reading and Belfast as well as an online operation.

Mr Oliver, who has purchased Dawsons with his wife Karen, said: “I’m excited to be taking on such a well-established brand with a strong heritage and huge potential.

“It would have been a huge loss for a business that is so well known and loved to close its doors for good.

“My wife and I are relishing the opportunity to lead such a strong team at Dawsons.

“Both businesses completely complement each other.”

Steven Percy and Paul Tyrer partners in the corporate and real estate teams at SAS Daniels Solicitors, advised the Olivers over the deal.

Mr Tyrer said: “I am delighted that we were able to rescue this historic brand and preserve so many jobs.

“Andrew has more than 21 years’ experience in the musical instrument sector and over 30 years’ experience as a musician.

“In that time, he has developed a close network of contacts across the globe.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for him to drive Dawsons forward, and I am sure that his strong leadership and passion for music will enable the business to flourish.”