THE jobs of 87 Rossendale haulage workers were under threat today after unions were called in to discuss the closure of the business.

Workers at Ben Barnes and Sons, Hollymount, Rawtenstall, were called into meetings today where the company's position was being made clear.

In a statement, the company said a major company had switched its business away from Barnes which "may well necessitate the closure."

Consultations began on Friday with trade union officers, representatives of the United Road Transport Union and employee representatives regarding the proposed closure.

If redundancies are necessary they will likely take effect from the start of the new year.

David Barnes, managing director, commented: "It is a very sad prospect if the business does indeed have to close.

"I have personally worked for B Barnes for over 35 years and many of our employees also have long service with the company,

"We have a very loyal, committed workforce and obviously want to be as supportive as we can in trying to identify ways of avoiding redundancies if necessary."

The company has a fleet of 65 vehicles which deliver all over the UK on a daily basis.

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