72 jobs at risk as docks struggle

The docks is facing increasing competition

Up to 72 jobs are to go at a docks in Cornwall as its owners try to stay competitive in the face of stiff competition from abroad.

A&P, which runs Falmouth Docks, said the affected staff would be offered voluntary redundancy or redeployed.

The company achieved record sales last year but a recent downturn in the market meant further changes were needed, a spokesman said.

It will refit four P&O ferries this year, but fleets are being cut in size.

Company managing director Peter Childs said other costs were also increasing and competition was getting stiffer from Eastern Europe.

A consultation period is now under way with staff in Falmouth.