HUSQVARNA has announced the temporary closure of its Newton Aycliffe factory following a number of confirmed coronavirus cases.

The factory came under fire yesterday following complaints its workers were 'dropping like flies' after reports of nine new Covid-19 cases.

Staff also said that 32 people are off work due to illness with many speculating it is Covid-19.

In a statement released today, Husqvarna said: "The health and safety of our employees is, and always will be, our main focus. Given this and in light of the current COVID-19 situation, we have decided to close the Aycliffe site from 6am on Saturday, May 16, for a ten day period. This leave will be with full pay for both permanent and agency workers. 

"We have many social distancing measures in place across the site over and above the guidance from the UK Health and Safety Executive.

"As previously, we will continue to take advice during this period from a number of external experts, in order to determine whether any additional measures are required in order to protect the health and safety of our people going forward."