500 jobs at risk if Blaydon dairy farmers' site closes

Jun 5 2009 by Katy Simpson, The Journal

It is hoped the majority of farmers will recover from the blow. But no one can say how long they could be left in limbo – and at what price.

Ms White said: “The number of dairy farmers has been dropping.

“At the end of last year we were in a situation where we had a shortage and we had to import from Ireland. But the problem is that some suppliers might already be taking milk from elsewhere and might not be in a position to take anyone else on, if they are tied in to a contract.”

Dairy farmer Dennis Gibb co-owns Eachwick Red House Farm, near Newcastle.

He fears the collapse could mean other dairy produce may have to start being imported.

He said: “One slight worry is that some of the business in dairy products that the DFOB might have could be lost, meaning we might have to import products such as cheese and yoghurts.”