Speedo factory closes

Speedo is the leading swimwear manufacturer in the UK

More than 140 staff at the Nottingham swimwear firm Speedo have been told they are losing their jobs, and production will be moved to the Far East.

Unions representing workers have been negotiating terms for their future.

The headquarters at Ascott Road in Aspley will not be affected.

Speedo's general manager Andy Morris said:" This regrettable step has not been taken lightly.

Significant firm

"We have spent the last two years examining every possible avenue in order to remain competitive in the UK.

"We are the only significant swimwear company manufacturing in the UK at the moment.

"Nottingham will continue to be Speedo's international headquarters employing over 200 people."

Workers react

Speedo has been making swimwear in Nottinghamshire for the past 50 years.

Now, the firm has been forced to cut costs, and is expected to relocate to cheaper sites in China and Sri Lanka.

If the closure goes ahead, the factory in Gedling will be shut in April.

Workers were told the news on Wednesday.