Workers at branches of a building supply merchants in Cumbria face an uncertain future after it was announced some would close.

Around 2,500 workers are set to lose their jobs at builders’ merchant Travis Perkins after bosses announced it would close 165 stores.

The firm has Cumbrian stores in Workington, Cleator Moor, Keswick, Wigton, Brampton, two in Carlisle, Penrith, Millom, Ulverston, Barrow and Kendal.

Although it is unclear how many may close, staff at the Barrow, Carlisle, Blackdyke Road, and Brampton branches said they would definitely remain open.

However, a post on social media showed a letter from the Millom branch telling customers it would be closing tomorrow.

The company, which also owns Toolstation and Wickes, said the decision comes as it expects recession to hit the trade for at least two years.

It said the closures will focus mainly on smaller sites.

Chief executive Nick Roberts said: “Whilst we have experienced improving trends more recently, we do not expect a return to pre-Covid trading conditions for some time and consequently we have had to take the very difficult decision to begin consultations on the closure of selected branches and to reduce our workforce to ensure we can protect the group as a whole.This is in no way a reflection on those employees impacted and we will do everything we can to support them during this process.”

In a statement the company said: “It is evident that the UK is facing a recession and this will have a corresponding impact on the demand for building materials during 2020 and 2021.”