Workers lose jobs two days before Christmas

GLOUCESTER workers were told they will lose their jobs two days before Christmas as a longstanding timber merchant announced its closure.

- CARMELO GARCIA

The owners of Griggs Timber Company have decided to close the business after more than 100 years at their Bristol Road site after "operating at a loss for the past three financial years".

Owners Kellaway Group confirmed on Tuesday that the firm, which has around two dozen workers, will be closed down.

The news comes just a week after the Local Democracy Reporting Service reported concerns about the long-term future of the site.

Julian Milligan, Kellaway Group managing director, said in a statement that the decision to close was "extremely difficult" and not one taken lightly.

The firm's main focus now is to support employees and help them with job applications and in securing future employment, he said.