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A butcher faces uncertainty, with 30 jobs lost and another 90 jobs at risk. Donald Russell, an Aberdeenshire butcher, could close down if no buyer is found for the business. The online butcher, based in Inverurie, first announced plans to shut in February.

The company, first established in 1974, said it has faced "mounting challenges" in recent years, including volatile meat prices. Talks to sell the Donald Russell brand and website are ongoing, and the remaining 90 roles at the firm are reportedly under threat. A spokesperson for Donald Russell said: "Sadly, after exploring all possible alternatives, we were unable to find a buyer for our business as an ongoing concern.

"We are now in advanced talks to sell the brand and direct-to-consumer website, and a new 30-day consultation has begun.

"We are grateful to all our fantastic colleagues, who have maintained the highest standards throughout an incredibly difficult period."

The firm closed its cold storage distribution centre in Kintore last year, which resulted in around 70 job losses.

In February, it announced plans to close its operations following a review of its financial position and market conditions, after which a statutory 45-day collective consultation process was held. 30 members of staff were then made redundant, it has now been confirmed.

Gordon and Buchan MP Harriet Cross said: "My immediate thoughts go to the staff who have been made redundant through no fault of their own, and to the workers whose jobs remain under threat.

"The closure of Donald Russell is devastating for the people of Inverurie, its staff, the supply chains and farmers who have all relied on the business for more than 50 years."

Donald Russell was first granted a Royal Warrant by Queen Elizabeth II in 1984 and a second by King Charles III in 2024.