AROUND 30 jobs are set to go at Leyland-based frozen pizza maker Schwan's after a decline in sales.

The company has said it is entering a consultation period with employees about reducing its workforce, but is looking for volunteers to avoid compulsory redundancies.

A statement from the company read: "We can confirm that Schwan's Consumer Brands UK Limited is entering into a consultation period with a view to making a number of redundancies at its Leyland manufacturing site.

"The UK frozen pizza category experienced its biggest ever volume decline in 2005, equivalent to a drop of five per cent.

"The company regrets that around 28 permanent employees may be affected, however, in order to avoid the need to make compulsory redundancies we would, wherever possible, look for volunteers.

"All employees affected will receive statutory redundancy packages and will be offered support and guidance in finding alternative employment."

The company said it was fully committed to developing and supporting its popular Chicago Town brand, which accounted for 23 per cent of UK sales.