Messages of support flood in for under-threat Alstom Derby workers

We're urging the Government to act now to save Derby's 185-year-long history of rail manufacturing

Derbyshire Live has joined the fight to help protect the city's 185-year-long history of rail manufacturing - and readers have sent in many messages of support to the Alstom workers who are threatened with redundancy. Just five more train orders would give the site, city workers and the supply chain that relies on it a future.

Redundancy notices have been issued to 1,300 manufacturing staff. The most recent comment from an Alstom spokesman said: "We have worked constructively with the Government on securing a sustainable future for Derby Litchurch Lane, but after discussions lasting over 10 months we have run out of time, and the production lines have stopped. We are now consulting with our staff, with trades unions and with our UK supply chain to provide as much certainty as we can."

Derby residents are rallying to show their love to those affected in our interactive map and comments section, and express their concern that the city's rail manufacturing industry may be lost forever. The trade stretches back generations, as Graham writes: "Very sorry to see the demise of 'the Carriage Side'. My first job in 1966 was as a trainee accountant there. I remember making up the wages, going to the workshops on a Friday and giving the staff their pay packets."

William feels the same: “I do hope that the works are saved. I started working at what was the Carriage and Wagon works, way back in 1952, and it should be saved at all costs. We lost the loco works, please don't lose the old C & W works.”

Tracy says: “I’ve known many people who’ve worked for the company over the years, and a close family member that’s just been made redundant! It’s so sad that it’s come to this.”

Leave your own message for the Alstom workers in our interactive map below.

This interactive requires javascript to work.

Alex writes: “Seriously at risk of losing some world-class engineering and manufacturing capability. Once lost, it takes a generation to get it back. Wishing everyone at Litchurch Lane the best.”

Dean says: “Save this company for the future of Derby and the train-building industry. Derby's history with train building is immense, and generations of people have worked for the company. Good luck to the workforce and I hope jobs can be saved!”

“Derby has always been known for its innovative contribution to the rail industry and construction", Gothgirl writes. "We are beautifully placed in the centre of the country, with excellent links to the rest of the country. If we lose this company it will be a travesty to all that has been built and achieved.”

In our comments section, user Ramchairwarrior says: “Sadly like most things, the people with the authority and power knew about this situation 18 months ago. Plenty of time to work towards a solution, but as always they wait until the last man is about to switch the lights off to beg. Too little too late and it’s the working man that will pay the price.”

AllViewsMyOwn adds: “Considering Britain created the rail industry with Derby at its forefront, it is unconscionable to allow it to die out.”

Have your family and friends worked in Derby's rail manufacturing industry? Comment below and join in on the conversation.