THE leader of a south Cumbrian business group has spoken of his strong resolve to pull through a jobs crisis.

Phil Collier, chairman of the Furness Federation of Small Businesses, spoke out following GSK's decision to scrap its investment plans for Ulverston.

He will form part of a task force established to meet the challenges left by the £350m investment black hole.

He said: "There is a very strong resolve. We can take this as an opportunity. Looking back to 2012 the work leading up to the bid [to secure the plant], the group really worked to promote the area, to attract that investment from GSK. It's that same resolve that we need to go out and promote what a fantastic facility we have here."

He added that while there would undoubtedly be tough times ahead, he was confident local business would respond positively.

"It's not what we want, but it's about not getting despondent."