THE region's economy suffered another heavy blow last night with the announcement that a further 99 jobs are to go.

Workers at glass processing company Solaglas have been told that the firm is to close its domestic appliance department at Bishop Auckland, County Durham.

Managing director of the French-owned company, Alistair Higgins, said the decision was made because of market conditions.

The announcement comes less than two weeks after an emergency job summit was held in the town to try keep existing jobs in the district and attract more businesses.

Mr Higgins said: "We will begin a 30-day consultation with staff on Monday and will be making every effort to support our employees and their families at this difficult time.

"We are actively seeking alternative employment opportunities for staff."

Bishop Auckland MP Derek Foster said: " I'm speaking with ministers to ensure that the assistance is given to those members of the workforce who are being displaced by redundancies.''

Union representatives were yesterday in talks with the company.

Allan Gray, from the Transport and General Workers' Union, said: "I have met members this afternoon and tensions are running high.

"There was even a call for industrial actions but we felt that that would be playing into the hands of the company."

Mr Gray hit out at Solaglas claiming that if 100 people had been made redundant, the unions would have had the right to 100 days talks with the company but because 99 people will lose their jobs that has been reduced to 30 days.

Lawrence Bryan, 41, has worked at the Tindale Crescent site for seven years.

He said: "A lot of experience and a lot of hard work has gone into this place. We feel very upset and let down.''

Sam Aldworth, 38, said: "We have the reputation for being the most multi-skilled workforce the company has. We have been sold down the river.''