A MAJOR employer in Carlisle may be cutting up to 75 jobs, it is feared.

The News & Star understands that Botcherby's Crown Bevcan, on Borland Avenue, may be eliminating the roles following the possible closure of some of its manufacturing lines.

Whilst the official figure of job losses is yet to be confirmed, Carlisle's MP John Stevenson expressed concerns over the loss of roles at the soft and alcoholic drink can manufacturer. 

“I’ve no had no official approaches or confirmation, but I understand that there may be up to 75 jobs lost at the plant," he said.

"This would be very disappointing with it being a long-established business with well-trained and well-paid staff.

"I hope they will invest in the plant to secure its long-term future and that those who do lose their jobs will be able to attain alternative employment as soon as possible."

Unite, one of the UK's leading unions responsible for many employees at the site, said the "potential redundancies are extremely concerning", with the union currently negotiating to keep potential job losses to a minimum.

Unite regional officer Malcolm Carruthers said: “The potential redundancies at Crown Bevcan are extremely concerning for the company’s workers. Unite is offering support to our members at this difficult time.

“We are in consultations with the company, ensuring our members’ best interests are the priority. 

"This includes negotiating to keep potential job losses to an absolute minimum and to try and ensure any redundancies are voluntary with the best possible severance packages.”

The news comes two years after over 200 employees walked out from the site on numerous occasions calling for better pay at the height of the cost-of-living crisis. 

The Crown Holdings Group, of which Crown Bevcan is part, was approached for comment.