UNION bosses are celebrating victory after safeguarding the jobs of 180 people at a closure-threatened depot.

The Communication Workers' Union (CWU) welcomed BT's decision to reprieve the workforce at its depot in North-allerton, North Yorkshire, after months of uncertainty.

The threat of closure was revealed last year when BT announced a review of the future of the Northallerton site.

Tory leader William Hague led a high-profile campaign against closure, which it was feared would have a devastating effect on the town.

Yesterday, a union spokes-man said BT had responded to the "concerted arguments" raised by the union and the town community.

He said: "We are pleased the company believes the closure of the site is no longer an integral part of their plans.

"However, there is still a long way to go with discussions regarding the future for the site and further talks are planned.

"The CWU would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community for their support and assistance in helping to bring this issue to this point."

A BT spokesman said there would be ten voluntary redundancies at the site, but added: "We are very pleased to be retaining the depot in Northallerton. Investment and modernisation at the site will continue.

"We are very glad that the future has been secured for the site and it is good news for Northallerton and the North-East."