Two thousand aerospace workers are facing concern over their jobs after BAE Systems announced it is looking to sell its aircraft parts business.

The move, in the aerostructures division of the company, could affect workers at plants in Salmesbury, Lancashire, and Prestwick, Ayrshire.

BAE says it will not break up the business, which produces aircraft parts for the likes of Airbus and Boeing, and only "credible" bidders will be considered.

But an MP said she feared the sites would be bought up with a view to shutting them down.

Sandra Osborne MP: news "not unexpected"

Sandra Osborne, MP for Ayr, said the announcement, which had been rumoured for months, was "not unexpected".

"BAE Systems are convinced this is the best way forward to secure the business at Prestwick," she said.

"However, concern remains about the intentions of any possible buyers, and their commitment to the Prestwick site."

A BAE spokesman said it had decided the business would have more scope for growth outside of the company.

"There is a full consultative process in place," he said.

"Third party interest in the aerostructures business will be sought from credible organisations with a sound reputation."