MORE THAN half the workforce of a long-established Poole firm could be cut as the operation closes its UK manufacturing arm.

Poole Lighting Ltd, which has produced domestic light fittings for more than 23 years, has confirmed that up to 80 staff could be hit by the closure.

But the company added that it would give all affected employees every help in securing alternative employment.

A statement from the company said: "Due to the demands and requirements of our customers, the decision has been taken that our UK manufacturing is no longer a viable option, and that in future all products will be supplied by third-party sources.

"It is therefore with deep regret that we have had to announce that our UK manufacturing operation will cease.

"We consider that between 70 to 80 people are likely to be affected, and we are currently in consultation with our employees in an attempt to minimise compulsory redundancies."

It is believed that the company, which is based at Cabot Lane, has a total staff of around 140, and that any redundancies will be effective from February 20.

Mid Dorset and North Poole MP Annette Brooke said she was sad to hear about this latest loss of manufacturing workers in an area which has already been hit by redundancies at Marconi and Hamworthy Engineering in recent years.

"It's a big blow, and I am really concerned about the large number of people being made redundant," she said.

"I hope that everything's going to be done to help with advice and support throughout this difficult time for the employees."