More than 150 jobs to go at dairy

Dairy Farmers of Britain blamed the cuts on falling cream prices

A dairy firm has announced it is to close its Hampshire site with the loss of more than 150 jobs.

Dairy Farmers of Britain, which is based in Nantwich, Cheshire, said it was closing its dairy in Portsmouth.

The firm said earlier this week it would also be closing its site in Fole, near Uttoxeter, Staffordshire, with the loss of more than 250 jobs.

The company blamed the cuts on falling cream prices along with high energy bills.

The Usdaw union said it was seeking an "urgent" meeting with managers over the issue.

'Difficult period'

John Gorle, Usdaw National Officer, said: "We have demanded an urgent meeting with the company in order that we can understand the business case behind this decision and to receive guarantees on jobs in the remaining localities.

"We are doing everything we can help our members during this difficult period."

Andrew Cooksey, chief executive of Dairy Farmers of Britain, said: "Our overall business performance has been hampered by continuing to operate with the current structure.

"This difficult but decisive action safeguards the business moving forward and is therefore in the best interests of our wider business, our members and our employees."

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