PLANS to cut seven Nestle jobs in Girvan has been branded 'disappointing'.

The confectionery giant is planning to cut several jobs in the area following plans to move the production of Blue Riband biscuits to Poland.

It is understood workers will be expected to volunteer for redundancy. There will be a 45 day consultation period shortly between Nestle and trade unions.

Alec Clark, said: "The decision by Nestle is to say the least very disappointing and can lead to insecurity among the workforce. 

"I will be asking South Ayrshire Council through their Enterprise and Tourism directorate, what contact has been made with the company in relation to this decision and its implication for the factory and the local economy. 

"I would hope that Nestle would give more consideration to this decision given the fact that the quality of the product is top class because of the skill of the workforce in this country. 

"To outsource a great British product like Blue Ribband to Poland will do nothing for the reputation of the product with the consumers of this country."

Almost 300 jobs are at risk across the UK including Girvan, York and Newcastle as well as a small number of cuts in Halifax, West Yorkshire.

The company is proposing 143 job cuts in York, 110 at Fawdon, 15 in Halifax and seven in Girvan, the unions said.

Nestle said in a statement: “These proposals are being made by Nestle UK to ensure that these sites operate more efficiently and remain competitive in a rapidly changing external environment.

“A 45 day consultation on these proposals will commence as soon as possible with trade unions and employee representatives. Nestle UK appreciates that this is an uncertain time for employees and will work hard to ensure all are supported through this difficult period.”