Local MP Jesse Norman has expressed his concern and sadness at the news of redundancies at the Hereford-based packaging company Gelpack, which has gone into administration.

Employees were told at a meeting today that the vast majority of staff will be made redundant immediately, with only a skeleton team remaining in place.

Commenting, Jesse said: “This is dreadful news, and a terrible shock to everyone working at Gelpack.

“I spoke to the Administrators KPMG last week, and made it absolutely clear that my team and I stand ready to assist in any way we can. I have also been trying to help in the search for potential new investors, and KPMG will continue to look for buyers for Gelpack's assets.

“As announced at the meeting earlier today, I will be holding a special surgery in Hereford this Friday, August 11, for anyone at the company who needs support at this very difficult time.

Appointments can be made by contacting Jesse’s office by telephone on 01432 276422, or via email at jesse.norman.mp@parliament.uk.