Job cuts threat at textiles firm

The textiles industry has been badly hit by job losses

More than 120 jobs are under threat at a textiles company in County Antrim.

The British Textile Manufacturing Company said its Northern Ireland operations base in Ballymoney is facing potential closure.

It blamed the move on a downturn in trading and the loss of a major customer.

DUP councillor Mervyn Storey, chair of Ballymoney Borough Council's development committee, said the news was a "body blow" for the community.

Mr Storey said he would be holding discussions with the company about the closure which is yet to be finalised.

"With the co-operation of the company directors and the assistance of Invest NI, a long-term survival plan could be put together to save both the plant and the livelihoods of so many of this borough's people," he said.

"What this borough does not need in the run up to Christmas is highly committed and competent workforce being made redundant with little likelihood of alternative employment in the short term."