A DEAL that ends weeks of uncertainty and saves the jobs of 300 workers at Nelson furniture maker Buoyant has been announced by the company's new owners.

Nottingham-based Wade Furniture Group agreed to buy the stricken firm from administrative receivers Arthur Andersen after three weeks of detailed negotiations involving bosses and union representatives.

Wade's group chairman, Charles Wade, today said: "This acquisition represents a major investment for Wade Furniture Group, one which I believe will not only strengthen the company's brand portfolio but also end any uncertainty that has been caused to both old and new management as well as to any customers who may have experienced delivery problems over the past four weeks." Mr Wade added: "I would like to thank all those involved in the negotiations, especially the management and GMB union whose support, patience and understanding has been of great importance, along with Garry Wilson from the receivers who has shown an honest and forthright approach to a very sensitive and complex issue." Wade's finance director John Higton was at Buoyant's Hallam Road factory yesterday for a day-long meeting with managers.

James Worsley, spokesman for Arthur Andersen, said: "We're very pleased that in these difficult times for the furniture industry that we've managed to secure this deal and save these jobs."

Around 180 workers were made redundant when the receivers were called in to Buoyant on February 9.

The buy-out, which was signed on Friday, secures the immediate future of the remaining staff.

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