Dorset food factory plans to axe 90 jobs

More than half of the workforce at a meat processing factory in Dorset is under threat of redundancy.

Bakers Pork Farms has started a 90-day consultation over plans to axe 90 of the 155 posts at its Shaftesbury site.

The firm, which was established in Nottingham in 1931, produces pork pies and a variety of pastries.

Bosses blamed the planned cuts on the withdrawal of a major customer. It said it is making "every effort" to support staff at this "difficult time".

In a statement the company added: "Pork Farms has taken the difficult decision to announce a consultation to reduce the workforce in line with the anticipated reduction in sales.

"Every effort will be made to support our employees through this time and we will offer outplacement support in finding new employment and training opportunities for those affected.

"Pork Farms remains active in pursuing new business opportunities and we believe this decision will help to maintain profitability and secure the future of the site."