A BURY clothing company is to close with the loss of more than 100 jobs.

Staff at Bentwood Brothers were given the shock news at an emergency meeting late on Thursday (Feb 24).

The 108 strong workforce have been given 90 days before the Bond Street factory and its sister plant in Chorley shut.

The move follows a re-organisation of Bentwood's production towards lingerie and underwear and away from ladies outwear.

The company refused to confirm or deny the move was in relation to a decision by retail giant Marks and Spencer, one of their biggest customers, to transfer the bulk of its business to foreign suppliers.

The announcement came after months of uncertainty and speculation over the future of the 60-year-old Bury factory. As employees walked from the building, several workers sliced their fingers across their necks or gave the "thumbs down" sign, indicating their response to the management's closure announcement.

Machinist Mrs Teresa Walker said: "I have worked for Bentwood's for the last 25 years. I was among those who made this company what it is.

"It is disgraceful how the management have handled this matter and treated the staff who have worked hard over the years."

A colleague added: "We cannot compete with the cheap foreign labour and we will lose our jobs."

The Bury and Chorley factories employ 300 of Bentwood's 3,400 strong UK workforce.

In a statement from Bentwood's, the company said it was with regret the decision has been taken to close the Bury and Chorley plants.

Managing director Mr Stephen Phillips said: "In line with other clothing companies, Bentwood continues to find the UK clothing market challenging.

"Consequently, we have to concentrate our manufacturing at those sites which support our continued growth and profitability, both off-shore and in the UK."

He added: "This is by no means a reflection on our employees' hard work and commitment, but a consequence of the need to refocus our production in a challenging market climate."

The management now will meet with employee representatives about the reorganisation plan and have assured every effort will be made to find alternative opportunities for staff.

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