Mixed fortune over jobs

HUNDREDS of workers in Chadderton experienced contrasting emotions yesterday as staff at one major firm faced job losses — while a once under-threat business company celebrated after being saved from closure.

On a rollercoaster day for the local economy, employees at mail-order organisation Shop Direct were told staff numbers will be cut by 125 at their Raven Mill base.

Bosses say a change in operations has resulted in fewer products being returned so not as many staff are needed. A 45-day consultation is now under way.

Meanwhile, an engineering firm which went into administration five months ago has been acquired by one of the country’s leading environmental equipment suppliers, protecting the jobs of a whole workforce.

Taylor, the world’s largest manufacturer of four-wheeled steel bins and on-street recycling containers, has pledged to invest in Sellers Company Ltd — securing their 67-strong workforce and prompting plans to expand.

Sellers managing director Clive Gallagher said: “What we needed was investment and now we’ve got it.”

The news comes as Oldham Council is trying to create 2,015 employment opportunities by 2015 as part of the Get Oldham Working scheme.