CHARD's mayor is 'deeply saddened' after it was revealed that 860 jobs were at risk.

Food giant Oscar Mayor revealed yesterday that the company's Chard sites could be shut within 12 months.

The company will enter into consultation with its employees on November 10, and the process is set to run for a minimum of 45 days.


RELATED: 860 jobs at risk - Oscar Mayer announces plans which could close Chard sites


Cllr Jason Baker, mayor of Chard, said: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the news of potential redundancies from all of the Oscar Mayer sites here in Chard. Oscar Mayer are one of the towns largest employers here in Chard and have been here for many years.

"I am keen to work with Oscar Mayer and offer any advice and support through our both the town council and economic development service at the district council along with all other partners and service providers to seek to minimise the impact of any redundancies to staff, should that formal decision be taken after consultation.

"I will be available for local residents should they wish to contact either myself or the council for help and advice and will do what I can to support local residents in this difficult time.

“We are currently working on a plan with citizens advice to offer drop in sessions at the guildhall for anyone that needs help or advice."

Oscar Mayer's shock announcement follows the recent closure of the evening shift, which saw around 100 jobs lost.

Are you a long time member of the Oscar Mayer team? How would the factory's closure affect you? Contact our reporter at oliver.palmen@nqsw.co.uk.