STRIKES at Warrington's Morrisons depot would have a devastating impact on the supermarket giant.

Hundreds of workers at Woolston's Hardwick Grange depot were set to strike from 6am tomorrow, Friday.

Union chiefs believe Morrisons is set to close the depot - and two others - with the loss of many jobs.

But last minute talks being held in Wakefield as the Warrington Guardian went to press could still result in a last minute reprieve.

GMB union rep in Warrington ,Eddie Gardie, said all the workers were set for the walkout.

He added: "We had a meeting with the workforce in Warrington on Tuesday night and we had a great turnout.

"Everyone is up for it.

"It would be devastating for the stores. The company is putting a brave face on it, but in reality they have not got the capacity in the stores to keep produce - especially fresh produce.

"The shelves will be empty in a number of stores.

"And the biggest concern for the company is that if people shop elsewhere, they will lose loyalty to the store."

The first strike is set to run until Monday morning while another series of walkouts are set to begin next week.

Yesterday was the final chance for an agreement.

"We are waiting to see what the company comes up with", he added.

The dispute started after union chiefs accused Morrisons of deliberately running the depots down. They used to be owned by Safeway before the Morrisons chain bought them out.

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