VALE MP Peter Luff has urged the parent company of Evesham Foods to reconsider their plans to close the factory.

Northern Foods announced last week the proposed closure of the Four Pools site, with the loss of around 400 jobs.

Mr Luff wants the firm to do all it can to protect the future of one of Evesham's most long-established businesses.

The mid-Worcestershire MP said: "The people of Evesham have given a lot to the company over the years and this closure should only go ahead if there genuinely is no alternative.

"I am not yet persuaded that such radical action is necessary.

"However, if closure really is inevitable, then the debt owed to its employees for their loyalty means no effort should be spared by the company to help them find the best possible alternative jobs. The corporate duty of Northern Foods is clear and I will do all I can to ensure they live up to that duty."

Mr Luff added he had written to Evesham Foods general manager Deborah Bolton to seek assurances about assistance to employees.

He has also asked Job Centre Plus, Wychavon District Council and Worcestershire County Council to keep him up to date with advice given to Evesham Foods workers.

He said: "It's true that the local economy is still quite strong, and I expect if the closure goes ahead, most people will be able to find other jobs. But that's not enough."

Evesham Foods spokesman Carole Gunston said: "We understand Mr Luff's concerns and we are doing everything we can to mitigate the effects of this proposal. Deborah Bolton is very happy to discuss the situation with him."

She added a call was made to the MP's office once the proposal had been announced and a letter was also sent out.