TWO jewels in Ashford's business crown have revealed that they are shedding jobs. Quest International and Eurostar will make a total of 75 job cuts under proposals now being discussed.

It will mean the end of the manufacture of fragrance ingredients at the Willesborough site by the middle of next year. Meanwhile, Eurostar services at Ashford International Station will be streamlined in a bid to reduce overheads.

Both companies are a big part of the town's future as it looks to expand dramatically over the next 30 years.

Ashford council's economic development officer, Mark Bradbury stressed: "Any loss of jobs in Ashford is disappointing, but there's not a growing unemployment problem. This is not doom and gloom. Jobs will be available for those who are looking for them.

"Inquiries about businesses coming to Ashford are on the increase and we are confident that this will more than compensate any losses from existing businesses."

FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK'S KENTISH EXPRESS