Iconic British motorbike firm crashes into administration

Leicestershire-based motorbike manufacturer Norton Motorcycles has fallen into administration. The winding-up order was given to the firm after it struggled to pay a tax bill.

Founded in 1898, Norton Motorcycles is one of the country’s last remaining homegrown motorcycle brands, and has been an iconic name within the sport and the movie industries.

Norton’s factory in Castle Donington has about 100 staff, and their futures with the firm are currently unknown. Global accoutnacy firm BDO have been appointed the administrators.

Lee Causer, Partner at BDO Birmingham branch, said: “We are taking all necessary steps to ensure that customers, staff and suppliers are supported through the administration process. Our job is to determine and execute the most appropriate strategy as swiftly as possible to protect creditors’ interests, bearing in mind the need to minimise distress for all parties.”