AN SOS has gone out to firms owed money by a North Kent transport firm that collapsed more than 13 years ago.

According to Mazars, an international accounting firm with a base in Brighton, is trying to track down “lost” creditors of Turbostar, previously based in Castle Road, Eurolink Industrial Estate, Sittingbourne.

The company went into liquidation on June 1, 1989. It had debts of £117,700 but assets of more than £135,500.

Chris Ashurst, insolvency partner with Mazars, a group with 5,500 staff and clients in 55 countries, would like to hear from Turbostar’s creditors.

Mr Ashurst became involved after the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry revoked the authorisation of the liquidator appointed at the time and asked Mr Ashurst to take over.

He said: “The first discovery was that all Turbostar’s company records had been destroyed which means that, as liquidator, I have no idea who is owed money by the company.”

He would like to hear from people who believe they have accounts still outstanding, but warns there is little chance of settlement.

"Although the figures prepared at the time the company went into liquidation were supposed to realise £135,563, it appears that only £19,288 was raised, and that in the first year of the liquidation £19,286 was paid out.”

Anyone with information that might help Mr Ashurst find Turbostar’s lost creditors or discuss any matters relating to the liquidation should contact him at Mazars Brighton office on 01273 206788.