NEGOTIATIONS were ongoing last night about the future of Rothmans' North-East factory site after the last cigarette rolled off the production line.

The mood was solemn as the machines that have been turning in the region's last cigarette factory for almost 30 years were turned off for the final time.

The closure of the factory marked the end of an era for North-East manufacturing and for all those who worked there.

But it is understood that British American Tobacco (BAT), Rothmans' parent company, is in talks about what the future holds for the site on McMullen Road, in Darlington.

BAT holds the lease for the next eight years, from landlords Marchday Group Plc.

John Williams, leader of Darlington Borough Council said: "In the case of the BAT site I hope that one day it will again be used for manufacturing."

He also welcomed the £1m legacy being left to Darlington by the company.

"It will enable a business development fund to support and nurture new firms and job creation initiatives over the next three years, including a special loan fund, skills training and community support," he said.

Almost a year ago, BAT announced the closure of the site along with the loss of almost 500 jobs.

Last night, the job losses became a reality for the 118 workers still at the factory.

Malcolm Ashton, 53, said the closure had final hit home as he walked out the doors of the factory at lunchtime.

The production electrician, from nearby Middleton St George, who has worked for Rothmans for almost 25 years, said: "The mood is a bit solemn. It is the young people I feel sorry for, they will have to start all over again."

Mr Ashton will be part of a 30-strong group, who will be stay at the factory until December to clear the machinery.

A separate team of about 50 people will remain until the end of this month to remove furnishings and fittings.