Workers at the R Griggs factory in Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, which manufactures the famous boot, were told of the decision on Thursday evening.

The closure is being blamed on a downturn of business overseas following the events of 11 September.

A thirty day consultation period between workers and management will now begin.

Latest cuts

Managers have said cuts became necessary after a review of the business.

The 124 job losses are the latest round of cuts to affect the Northamptonshire footwear and clothing firm.

We hope many of those affected by this closure will be able to quickly get another job

Graham Ridge, council leader

Of the total redundancies, 94 are among the production staff at the factory.

The remaining 33 are from other posts at other sites.

Graham Ridge is the leader of Wellingborough borough council.

He admitted the job losses are a blow but is hopeful the workers will find other jobs

"The economy of the town is generally buoyant and unemployment is low - around the 2% mark.

"There are jobs and we hope many of those affected by this closure will be able to quickly get another job."

Production will continue at R Griggs' other factories at Irthlingborough and Wollaston in Northamptonshire and in Leicestershire.