HUNDREDS of crisp factory jobs are under threat.

PepsiCo is looking at shutting its Walkers plant in Peterlee, east Durham, and moving work to other bases in the UK.

The company says 380 workers could be affected, including 355 manufacturing staff and 25 drivers.

Easington MP Grahame Morris said it was "terrible news" for manufacturing in east Durham.

According to a statement from Tracey Foster, Peterlee manufacturing director at PepsiCo UK, the change will help improve productivity and deliver savings.

She said: “In order to improve the efficiency of our UK snacks manufacturing operations, we are proposing the closure of our factory at Peterlee.

"Crisps currently produced at the site would be manufactured at our other facilities in the UK.

"Peterlee has been an important site for our business but the changes we are proposing present significant productivity and efficiency savings crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainable growth of our business in the UK.

“We appreciate this is upsetting news for everyone at the Peterlee site.

"It is a difficult proposal for us to put forward and we want to make clear that it in no way reflects the performance of our colleagues at Peterlee, who we are grateful to for their hard work and commitment.

“No decisions will be made without first consulting employees and their representatives.

"We would also like to reassure colleagues that we will be providing on-going support and assistance from this point onwards.”

Mr Morris said he will speak to the company and unions to make sure workers are given the support they need.

He added: "This is terrible news for manufacturing in east Durham with the loss of 380 jobs.

"At this time, my thoughts are with the Walkers staff and their families.

"In the days ahead, I will be discussing these job losses with Walkers, trade union representatives and officers from Jobcentre Plus to ensure all employees are provided with the support they need to find alternative employment.

"It would also be helpful if Walkers could provide more information regarding their decision in order that we can take the necessary steps to ensure east Durham is a competitive manufacturing area able to retain and expand job opportunities.”