ALMOST 60 jobs are expected to be lost at one of the Knutsford area’s biggest employers.

Harman Technology has completed a 30 day redundancy consultation process and it is understood that some workers left the Mobberley company on Friday.

Managing director Peter Elton has declined to comment or confirm any of the details.

But sources have revealed that almost 60 people are expected to go at the Ilford Way business.

A Knutsford resident, who worked for the company between 1997 and 2010, said: “There has been a lot of sadness and shock within the workforce and a lot of my personal friends are very upset understandably.

“I was lucky and left the company last year but still have close ties there.”

Harman Technology, which bought out Ilford Imaging, is a photography business.

It is understood that the main reason for the job losses is the continuing rise in silver prices – the main component of its products. The company has faced many job cut threats in the past.

In 2009 there were plans to axe around 80 jobs at the factory.

The former employee, who did not wish to be named, added: “When I was there I went through three bouts of redundancy.

“Certainly a lot opted for redundancy this time as it was felt this would be the last chance to get the best terms.

“This will bring numbers down to less than 200.

“When I first started, there were 1,700 workers.”

The Guardian has received information which suggests that Harman Technology will lose up to 25 per cent of its workforce during the cuts.

It is understood the company wants remaining staff to ‘cross train’ so that they can do each others’ jobs with limited numbers.

“It’s been very upsetting for a lot of people, especially those that didn’t opt for voluntary redundancy,” said the former worker,” added The Guardian’s source.

“The recession is still very much here. Photography is an industry that people cut back on when times get hard.

“It’s considered a leisure or hobby product.”

The Guardian was first told about the job cuts on March 22 but agreed to honour the company’s consultation period with staff and the union.

If you have been affected by the job cuts, contact David Morgan by calling 01606 813623 or email david.morgan@guardiangrp.co.uk