A FORMER worker at an apprenticeship giant - which had a base in Blackburn - has spoken of the "devastation" felt by staff after it unexpectedly went into liquidation.

3aaa, which had offices at St John's Court in the town centre, called in the administrators amid investigations being mounted by the Education and Funding Skills Agency (EFSA) and question marks over its funding.

The agency is reported to have handed over its initial findings on the government-funding scheme to police.

The outfit worked with a number of leading East Lancashire employers to provide openings in everything from technology and marketing to customer service, finance and accounting.

But staff arrived at work this week to be told that they no longer had jobs.

Anthony Rishton, from Earby, posting on social media, said: "Sorry to all of you I have tried to help since I started at 3aaa #apprenticeships three months ago.

"But today we received the devastating news that the company is now entering liquidation. It's been a pleasure to meet and help you all."

He said he had a number of "fantastic followers" and hoped to return to helping local businesses in the near future.

The EFSA confirmed that notices had been issued to terminate contracts with 3aaa, which would have included a three-month notice period, running to next January.

As a result of the uncertainty surrounding the operation, there was a suspension placed on fresh apprenticeship enrolments. This all led to the directors placing the company in administration.

A message on 3aaa's website states: "We apologise for any inconvenience, the company have ceased trading and will no longer be accepting any further business.

"All the best for all employers, 3aaa apprentices and staff in the future."

An EFSA spokesman added: "Our priority is to protect the apprentices and to ensure minimum disruption to their learning.

"We will source high-quality alternative provision as quickly as possible and support apprentices and employers to enable them to continue with their apprenticeship programme.

"We will write to all apprentices and employers to explain the next steps."

The agency has established an e-mail address for concerned apprentices - 3.AAA@education.gov.uk

A message on 3aaa's website states: "We apologise for any inconvenience, the company have ceased trading and will no longer be accepting any further business.

"All the best for all employers, 3aaa apprentices and staff in the future."

Question marks have been raised over a number of sports sponsorship deals secured by 3aaa's outgoing directors, including a £480,000 tie-up with Derbyshire County Cricket Club, £380,000 for Derby County FC and another £204,000 for Norwich City FC.