WORKERS at a Remploy packaging factory in the Valleys are to lose their jobs after a search for a buyer proved fruitless.

Croespenmaen Remploy was one of the sites earmarked for closure by the government but had been given a reprieve in the hope a business could come forward to buy it.

But the organisation confirmed yesterday that the site would close around the end of October and beginning of November.

Chris Evans, MP for Islwyn, said it was a cruel blow and added: “The government have shown what they think of Remploy workers by offering them months of false hope.”

Ian Lloyd, branch secretary for the GMB at the unit, said workers were told yesterday morning they would be made redundant.

He said that a firm called Diamond had previously made two bids for the site but did not submit a final bid.

“For some members there was relief. They were scared of a firm taking over and what would happen to them,” he said.

“Some were upset they are now being made redundant.”

Of the 46 people at the site almost all have disabilities.

A Remploy spokesman said there would be an consultation for every employee, lasting 30 days.

A package of support would be offered to workers.