MORE than 200 workers face a bleak Christmas after being told their company is quitting the town.

Biomet, a global supplier of orthopaedic devices, based in Murdock Road, Dorcan, announced yesterday that it is proposing to focus all its production at its site in Bridgend.

If the proposals go ahead, approximately 220 employees, including skilled, semi-skilled and management, will be made redundant in Swindon over the next two years.

HR director Les Murray said: “In response to increasing global economic pressures and a need to deliver cost-effective product solutions, Biomet has conducted a strategic review of its manufacturing capacity.

“As a result of this review, Biomet proposes to consolidate its UK manufacturing operations by ceasing manufacturing at its facility in Swindon and focussing all UK production at its remaining site in Bridgend, Wales. Under this proposal, Biomet does not intend to reduce manufacturing at Swindon until April, 2012.

“It is anticipated that the transition would take two years to complete, during which period many affected employees will have the opportunity to continue their employment with Biomet.

“It is estimated this may result in a reduction of approximately 220 employees over the next two years at the Swindon site, but Biomet anticipates that 80 jobs will be created in the Bridgend facility. Swindon employees will be encouraged to apply for jobs in Bridgend.”

Mr Murray said the company, which was founded in 1977 with operations in 70 countries around the world, will continue to operate a facility in the town for Biomet’s commercial and R&D team members.

Jo Bobbin, vice-president of the Swindon Chamber of Commerce, said: “It is difficult decisions companies like Biomet are faced with making. It is never easy for them and it is always a disappointment to hear people moving out of Swindon.”

South Swindon MP Robert Buckland said: “I am making inquiries with the company as to the reasons for this decision and I will do everything I can to safeguard jobs at the Swindon site.

“If that proves impossible, I would like to know what measures they are going to take to support employees in re-training and what packages will be on offer.”