Disabled workers lose jobs.

DOZENS of blind and disabled workers were left jobless yesterday as the doors closed on their factory after more than 160 years.

Devastated staff at the Glencraft furniture factory were told to pack their things after the firm went into administration.

The company have blamed the withdrawal of Aberdeen City Council's funding because of budget cuts.

The 51 employees, some of whom have worked at the firm for more than 40 years, said an emotional private farewell to each other in the works canteen.

Andrew Laing, 52, who worked at Glencraft for 27 years, said: "It's a very dark day for Aberdeen - it's 166 years of history gone with the stroke of a pen."

First Minister Alex Salmond visited the Wellington Road factory on Tuesday and had given assurances that everything would be done to secure a "good outcome" for the staff.

But MP Anne Begg said: "The workforce don't know what the future holds, it's a black hole for them next week.

"Hopefully there will be something for them, be it early retirement or another job.

"But also it's the end of the institution of Glencraft, which has been going for 166 years."

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GOODBYE: Two workers