This is a period during which we review the next steps in considerable detail, chief executive says.
William Sinclair is in a period of consultation with staff and interested parties regarding the possible closure of its Oswaldtwistle site in Lancashire.

The horticultural supplier gained the facility – in addition to a number of other production sites – as part of its acquisition of Joseph Metcalf (Gem) in January this year.

The Oswaldtwistle site employs 60 people.

William Sinclair stressed in a statement that the possible closure does not affect all Joseph Metcalf employees such as those at Astley and Chat, Manchester, and the professional sales teams.

Bernard Burns ceo said: "There will obviously be a period during which we review the next steps in considerable detail. Our intention is to support the local Lancashire workforce whilst also protecting our wider responsibilities to all our sites and employees."

He added that production or availability of Sinclair's commercial or branded products will not be affected.

Joseph Metcalf Joseph Metcalf has been based in Oswaldtwistle since 1887.

William Sinclair Holdings has an annual turnover of £38million and employs 380 people.