BAILIFFS have cut off the gas to a mill complex in a dispute over unpaid bills.

Traders at the Linthwaite- based Colne Valley Business Park were given just one hour’s notice before the gas supply was axed last Monday.

The Examiner understands the service was cut off after the mill’s landlords fell more than £11,000 behind on their gas bill.

The problem is not affecting the whole mill but most units on the Manchester Road side of the complex have been hit.

It is now thought the gas could be off for another two-weeks.

Many of the traders only lost their heating but it is thought one company, Plus Foods, had to close down as it could not cook any of its products.

Traders at the mill said they paid their bills to the business park’s manager Michael Robinson and did not deal with the utility companies directly.

The Examiner tried to contact Mr Robinson but he could not be reached.

Last Friday the gas had still not been restored and traders said they were now worried the electricity may be next.

Paul Hobson, director of Calf Hey and Best Impressions label makers, said he understood the problem centred on a dispute over which tariff the mill owners had been put on.

He said the owners had refused to pay up until the issue was resolved.

Mr Hobson said the lack of gas was not affecting their production but it had meant they needed to bring in a number of expensive electric heaters.

He said: “It’s a bit of a dilemma particularly because all the tenants have been paying their bills.

“We were asked if we could help them towards their gas bill.

“We’re concerned they have done the same on the electricity, if that goes we would be out overnight.”

Other businesses affected include cash register company ITS, convenience shop Premier Foods and model maker Nixon Miniatures.

The worst affected is thought to be Plus Foods who were forced to immediately halt their operation.

On Friday the unit was closed up and other traders said the company couldn’t manufacture its products without its gas ovens.

Trevor Dixon, owner of Nixon Miniatures, said he had been a tenant of the mill for 20 years.

He said: “We don’t know what’s going on which is a bit unsettling.

“It’s just a good job we don’t need gas to make our models.

“If it the electricity had gone then everybody would be affected.”