CHEMICAL JOBS THREAT.

ALMOST 200 jobs could be lost after two chemical companies announced plans to close plants on Teesside.

But union leaders yesterday warned the closures - due in 2010 - could have a disasterous effect across the whole industry in the UK The Dow Chemical Company said the recession was behind its decision to shut its plant at Wilton.

Its closure means Croda International, which needs chemicals produced at nearby Dow, will have to close its Wilton plant too.

Croda International said: "Dow's decision makes our operation no longer economically viable." Unite national officer Phil McNulty said: "It cannot be stressed enough that this plant stands at the heart of a strategic business for the UK.

"Unite is working day and night to find a solution to this threatened closure. Its loss will be devastating."