JOBS are under threat at a Portland quarrying firm.

Employees at Hanson Bath and Portland Stone are demanding answers after being told by bosses that a number of offers had been received for the business - even though it is not officially for sale.

The company moved to calm fears today saying the interests of workers was paramount and any decision to sell would be considered carefully.

But there is no guarantee that all jobs will be safe, leaving the 60-plus workforce concerned about the future.

One employee, who did not want to be named, said: "The bosses got us all together and told us the company could be sold.

"It's all a bit up in the air at the moment and no one knows what will happen next.

"We have no idea if our jobs are safe.

"Personally I fear the worst but I hope I'm wrong."

Hanson Bath and Portland Stone owns a masonry works and quarries on Portland.

Elsewhere it owns mines in Bath, masonry works in Keynsham and stone operations in the Cotswolds.

It is a division of Hanson, one of the world's leading building materials companies which supplies recycled and quarry products to the construction industry.

Three offers from unidentified bidders have been received for Hanson Bath and Portland Stone.

Company spokesman David Weeks said prospective purchasers would be visiting the operations to get a closer look at the business.

This process will either lead to negotiations moving forward to a sale or a decision being taken not to sell.

Mr Weeks added: "Bath and Portland Stone is a successful and profitable business.

"The fact that it is successful and profitable makes us a highly attractive prospect for potential buyers.

"We are duty bound to listen to sensible offers for the business in the best interest of employees and shareholders.

"However if the offers received are not acceptable then the business will not be sold."

Mr Weeks said any proposal would have to contain detailed information about how the new owner intends to run the business.

This includes a range of personnel issues such as pension rights and assurances that existing terms and conditions of employment will be maintained.