ABOUT 100 jobs have been lost after a self-made millionaire became a victim of the recession.

Asbestos removal boss Lee Hipgrave, 45, gave staff an hour’s notice, after bank debts forced his firm, LCH Contracts Ltd into administration.

The Billericay-based company employed 45 people, but its closure has also forced Mr Hipgrave’s two other companies into administration, putting a further 55 out of work.

The entrepreneur is also executive producer of unreleased movie, The Rapture, starring Danny Dyer, Martin and Gary Kemp and Billy Murray. He said the film’s release would now be delayed.

FULL REPORT IN THURSDAY'S ECHO