A UNION says that a decision to close a fish factory - with up to 450 job losses - is "hardly surprising".

Unite has responded after Young's Seafood confirmed that it is pressing ahead with a proposal to shut its Pinneys operation in Annan.

The decision has been described as devastating by the area's MP, Scottish Secretary David Mundell.

Opposition had been expressed with protests and public meetings.

Efforts are ongoing to find potential other investors for the site, a critical part of the economy which employed staff from across Dumfriesshire and north Cumbria.

Young's, which has a second factory in Annan, is moving salmon processing to a plant in Grimsby. The 2 Sisters factory in Carlisle has been linked to a Marks & Specncer ready meals contract held by Pinneys.

Unite says it's "disappointed" that the company says it cannot secure production at the Stapleton Road complex.

Industrial officer Andy MacFarlane added: "However, it’s hardly a surprise. Let’s be clear, Young’s made a premeditated decision to remove the possibility of future work by transferring production to Grimsby while resigning specific strands of the business with M&S knowing the impact on the Annan site. This made the consultation a sham.

“The workforce is devastated. Whole families will be affected by this decision. If there are any interested parties then we would encourage them to come forward with concrete proposals.“

Dumfries and Galloway Council moved to reassure those affected that it is continuing to work to look for alternative solutions and opportunities for Pinneys' employees.

Leader Elaine Murray said: "We remain focused on finding a resolution to the situation and to find potential investors for the site which will in turn help rebuild the local economy.

"We know that the Pinneys' employees remain a dedicated workforce and we will do all we can to find suitable employment for them with firms who will value their skills."

Young's insist that the decision does not mean that consultation has ended.

"We intend to continue to meet with employee representatives on a fortnightly basis to discuss ongoing items, including redeployment opportunities," a spokeswoman said.