Union optimistic over jobs threat

A threatened manufacturing firm, which employs hundreds of staff in County Durham could be a step closer to being saved, according to a workers' union.

BHD, which owns Portland Conservatories has 311 workers in Peterlee and went into administration last week.

George Stephenson from the Union of Construction, Allied Trades and Technicians (UCATT), said he is hopeful about finding a buyer for the firm.

A meeting was held with DIY giants B&Q and Wickes on Tuesday.

Mr Stephenson said: "Following a meeting with the company and union, the receivers (KPMG) say B&Q and Wickes have expressed an interest.

"This lends itself to a more secure future, at least in the short term, for our members.

'Things can change'

"The union is doing everything possible to secure a buyer for the company and things now look a lot better.

"As far as job losses go, at the present time there won't be any. Things can change, but we're hopeful that the position will remain as it is until a buyer is found."

West Midlands-based BHD was founded in 1984 and employs 578 people, including 75 at the Aldridge head office, 311 in Peterlee,110 in Flint, North Wales, 68 in Manchester and 14 in Tamworth, Staffordshire.

The companies taken into administration were Portland Conservatories, conservatory maker Houseproud, BHD Building products and BHD Flint, which makes windows, doors and conservatory panels.

A spokesperson for KPMG said talks with key customers, suppliers and employees were ongoing in an attempt to preserve the value of the businesses.