UKSolutions say Suffolk-based Fast24 has made no formal attempt to have the network re-established, though there had been informal approaches to restore some parts. A spokesman said the dispute between the firms remains unresolved.

The Register has spoken to former employees of Fast24, who claimed the firm had been in financial difficulty for some time. Several staff left around one month ago over pay concerns and it is believed the remaining workers were fired on Friday.

Attempts to contact Fast24 and its managing director Jason Elsom have been unsuccessful. The phones at Elsom's mobile contract venture Mobie are currently not in service either.