Up to 220 jobs could go at Biomet in Swindon

Up to 220 jobs could go at a company that manufactures replacement joints in Wiltshire.

Biomet wants to cease manufacturing at its site in Dorcan, Swindon and focus its production in Bridgend in south Wales due to "economic pressures".

The company said it did not intend to reduce its Swindon operations until April next year.

South Swindon MP Robert Buckland said the job losses could have a big impact on the town.

Biomet designs and manufactures orthopaedic implants, such as replacement hips and knees.

'Rising unemployment'

The company spokesman said the whole process of moving manufacturing to Wales was expected to take two years to complete.

The firm would retain its sales and research and development roles in Swindon, he added.

The company said it expected to create 80 jobs in Bridgend, and Swindon employees would be encouraged to apply.

A consultation over the plans is due to take place in Swindon.

Conservative Mr Buckland said hundreds of job losses on top of rising unemployment could have a big impact on Swindon.

He said that he would press the company to do everything it could to avoid job losses.