DOZENS of jobs are at risk at a factory after demand for its products fell.

Managers at Siemens have blamed the "economic downturn" for its decision to axe workers at its Congleton site.

A total of 49 temporary workers are affected by the announcement, but the company has said no permanent staff will go.

About 400 people are employed at the Varey Road plant, which produces drive mechanisms for industrial machinery.

A spokesman for Siemens said: "There are 49 positions affected. No permanent positions are at risk; it is a matter of fixed-term contract staff and agency workers. We have had quite high demand for products from Congleton and we're proud of the factory there.

"They had quite high orders which is why we brought the temporary staff on board. There has been a reduction in demand so we are putting in place some cost-cutting measures, and unfortunately that will result in a reduction of temporary workers.

"There will be a consultation with those affected."

Staff were told about the job cuts by letter. Signed by manufacturing manager Neil Eardley and human resources adviser Sallyann Sharrock, and dated January 12, it states: "Further to discussions today, we regret to inform you that due to the current downturn in the economy which is now affecting our business, we have got to take immediate action and as a result, all non-permanent production contracts are to be declared at risk of redundancy."

Some temporary staff have been told not to come into work for 30 days, but will still be paid.

One worker said: "It's like a ghost town inside the factory at the minute. Everyone is understandably not very happy."

Congleton mayor Colin Burgess said: "Siemens has been in Congleton for a very long time and is one of the main employers in the town, so this news comes as a serious blow to the town.

"You just have to hope this will be it for Siemens and there won't be a second wave of cuts."