EMPLOYEES at a distribution depot will have to wait until the end of the month to find out if their jobs are safe.

Rumours have been circulating that the Co-operative Group is planning to close its distribution depot in Courteney Road Gillingham.

If true, the decision to close the busy depot near Rainham Mark Tescos could mean the loss of 253 jobs.

The food chain, which has branches in Gillingham and Walderslade, near Chatham, is currently assessing the future of its depots across the country, including Medway.

A spokesman for the Co-operative Group said: "We are looking at our distribution needs in the South East and we hope to be able to make an announcement later this month."