Blunkett urges factory reprieve

Former Home Secretary David Blunkett has called for a reversal of Aberdeen City Council's decision to cut funding for a factory for the disabled. Mr Blunkett said he was "deeply disturbed" that the Glencraft workshop faced closure. Speaking in Aberdeen, he said disabled workers needed to feel valued.

The council's deputy leader Kevin Stewart said he believed the factory could still have a future despite losing its £650,000 annual funding. Mr Blunkett told BBC Scotland: "I hope all of those who want to see people having a job, learning skills, getting confidence, feeling they are valued, will campaign to reverse the decision."

Glencraft's board will meet later to discuss the situation. Mr Stewart said: "I hope all is not lost but I cannot say one way or another." Aberdeen City Council was branded "cruel and inept" amid fears that the factory will have to close.

Management at Glencraft said the withdrawal of funding meant the factory - which employs dozens of people - could shut as early as April. Glencraft general manager Anthony Pratt said it was "absolutely appalling" news.

Most of the workers at Glencraft, which is involved in the furniture trade, are blind or disabled.