Gossard has confirmed that it is to close its factory in south Wales with the loss of 162 jobs.

Earlier this month, crisis talks were held between management and unions at Gossard's Penmaen Road factory in Ponllanfraith.

Increasing pressure from cheap imports was blamed for the factory's problems.

Production will cease on 2 February.

Andrew Mann, general manager of Gossard, said it was unlikely that there would be alternative posts within the company for the Pontllanfraith workers.

Disappointing sales

The announcement comes on Wednesday comes as a double blow for the Welsh textile industry.

Marks & Spencer's disappointing sales figures could mean 300 job losses at Dewhirst's Fishguard factory.

The future of the site is already under review.

The plant at Lampeter - which employs 165 - is already due to close as a result of the problems.

Dewhirst produces clothes almost exclusively for the high street chain and has been badly hit by its recent poor performance.