A CHEQUE which has guaranteed factory jobs is being handed over in east Cleveland today.

Prospects looked bleak for workers at the former Trellborg plant in Skelton, just one year ago.

Now a lifeline of £50,000 to help keep the plant open has been put together by Redcar and Cleveland Council and the Tees Valley Development Company.

It will be received by representatives of the works' new owners - Industrie Ilpea S.p.a director Nicola Rabuffo and general manager David Cadman.

The Skelton site manufactures rubber mouldings and seals for kitchen appliances and Ilpea has already leased a further 3,000 sqft unit from the council, close to the existing factory.

Mr Cadman said the council was 'a source of support and advice since the crisis arose 12 months ago'.

Council leader Coun David Walsh said: "We're delighted to be able to provide assistance on behalf of all the local authorities."