TRADE Unions have called on the government to invest in manufacturing following the announcement that Polimeri Europa in Hythe is to close.

Over a 130 staff look set to lose their jobs after a meeting with Polimeri management on November 21 when the closure was confirmed.

Polimeri have occupied the site for 50 years.

Nicola Nixon, of BMG, said “British manufacturing used to be the pride of our nation but it was decimated during the 80's thanks to the Tory government and is now being further eroded by the Con-Dems.”

GMB is currently exploring options in an attempt to retain the site at Hythe but said it feels that Government intervention is needed.

It’s another bitter blow for the union’s members in the run up to Christmas, and comes in the wake of the closure of Fords and Vospers.