Workers at the giant Corus plant on Teesside still fear it could close despite today's reprieve.

Matthew Lodge, 44, of Marske, Cleveland, has worked for 28 years at the huge Redcar plant, which turns large blocks of steel, or ''slabs'', into beams known as ''blooms''.

The father of three said today: ''When we heard there was an announcement today, we thought we would know definitely, but we are no further forward.

''I think it is still going to go, whether it is in six months or in two years.

''They have taken away our customers in Stocksbridge, and left us to sell on the open market with the likes of China, which is mass produced.

''We would rather know one way or the other - we have a life to get on with.

''I want to know if I can go on holiday next year.''

Businessman Bob Pound, managing director of Hallcalm UK, which repairs equipment at the plant, was slightly more upbeat.

He said today: ''It is a disaster they are even contemplating it.

''We are based in Peterlee, 15 miles away, and thousands of jobs in this area rely on it. This plant represents 30 per cent of our business.

''They have been given a reprieve, and although it is not brilliant news, it is better than it could have been.

''My view is: as long as we are still in the game, we still have a chance to win.''