Jobs to go at engine manufacturer

Around 450 jobs are being axed at an industrial and agricultural engine manufacturer, it was announced today.

Perkins Engines confirmed that 100 full-time office roles and 350 hourly-paid workers would lose their jobs at its main Peterborough site.

The firm said it was also considering launching a voluntary redundancy programme for the remaining hourly-paid employees.

"We regret this action is necessary, however, it is ultimately in the long-term interests of our business," added Perkins.

It has already cut its temporary hourly-paid workforce, axing 70 roles in November and launching a voluntary redundancy programme last month to trim 150 volunteers and temporary staff.

The group said today that the moves have come in response to "economic conditions that impact the demand for its products".

"Perkins' focus is on making decisions and taking actions that will best position the company for long-term success and profitable growth," it added.

The firm employs 2,700 staff at its Peterborough head office, but also has a parts distribution base in Irlam, Manchester, and a product centre in Stafford.

Perkins makes diesel and gas engines for a range of vehicles and boats, such as tractors and yachts.

The group was founded more than 76 years ago by Frank Perkins.

He came from a family of engineers, with his father and grandfather having run a family business, called Barford and Perkins, which made agricultural machinery and road rollers.