AN AYLESFORD packaging company is to close, resulting in the loss of 70 jobs.

Managers at the Frantschach Industrial Packaging Plant, which makes industrial sacks and packaging, broke the news to all 70 workers on Friday, who were then sent home for the day.

Frantschach AG bought the site, formerly known as Medway Sacks, from AssiDoman AB in August 2000 and an evaluation was made to try to turn continuous cash losses around. But it was unsuccessful and the New Hythe Lane plant will close in April.

Jonathan Shaw, MP for Chatham and Aylesford said: "I was very sorry to learn of this plant's closure and am greatly concerned for the job prospects of all those affected. However, I have held discussions with the company and have been assured that a full outplacement programme, including on-site job seeking workshops and one-to-one counselling, will be offered."

A member of staff, who did not want to be named said: "No-one's happy about it but at the moment we are just going on as best we can."