RADCLIFFE-based MEP Gary Titley has given his support to staff at Remploy factories across the country.

More than 60 jobs were saved at the firm's Radcliffe branch when it was announced in May that the factory would be expanded.

However, the company plans to close 32 of its factories and merge a further 11 with nearby sites following a nationwide review.

North West MEP Mr Titley has worked closely with Remploy in the past to help the company gain work under EU public procurement laws.

He said: "It's crucial that both the government and the Remploy board listen to what the trade unions and workers have to say. The EU public procurement laws were designed to help sheltered workshops like the ones set to axed. These closures can and should be avoided.

"To lose so many skilled jobs for disabled people in our region would be a bitter blow, especially to a government that has done so much to get people into work."