CUSTOMERS left out-of-pocket by a failed glass company have been thrown a lifeline – by its main competitor.

Rayleigh Glass Windows & Conservatories has stepped in to the shoes of Southern Glass Windows & Conservatories after it collapsed.

The buy-out means the Southern Glass name will be kept alive and customers, who had guarantees with the company, will be able to claim insurance or benefit from cut prices.

Steve Dominey, sales director at Rayleigh Glass, said: “It is our aim to maintain the good reputation of Southern Glass, which was known for its high-quality work.”

Southern Glass, founded more than two decades ago, became one of the biggest local suppliers of double-glazing and conservatories.

The business split into two separate companies, Southern Glass Ltd and Southern Glass Windows & Conservatories, nine years ago.

The latter firm, which acted as a management company, was handed to administrators on February 15. All its staff were made redundant.

Rayleigh Glass has bought the rights to trade as Southern Glass, which means the showroom in Hamstel Road, Southend, will stay open.

People who received a quote from Southern Glass before it fell into administration will now be able to deal with Rayleigh Glass.

The firm is also offering advice to previous customers still under a guarantee about how to make a claim on Southern Glass’ insurance.

Julia Golding, 34, of Westcliff, who bought double-glazing from Southern Glass, said: “It’s a big relief.”