A FEW tears were shed as the remaining workers at the former UEF factory left for the final time last Friday.

At its peak the Sherwood Road, Aston Fields factory, which was owned by Garringtons before UEF, employed more than 2,500 people. Production ceased 12 months ago, due to financial problems.

The factory had been a cornerstone of the town's economy and has contributed greatly to Bromsgrove's history.

Garringtons was the largest 'free forge' in the world and put Bromsgrove on the map as a centre of industry. The plant was bought by United Engineering Forgings in 1996.

For the past year it has been winding down with a skeleton staff.

On Friday the UEF flag flew at half-mast as a mark of respect, and a buffet had been put on at the Sugarbrook Pub in Charford for the remaining workers.

John Wheeler, who has worked at the site for 43 years, said: "A lot of us are 61 and 62-years-old. There is no hope for us finding a job now."

Worker at the factory for 26 years, Brian Amherst said: "I'm planning to start my own gardening and landscaping business. Now I've got nothing to lose. I'll give it a go."

Persimmon Homes has bought the land and have plans to develop it.

homes and business properties on it.

The demolition crews were due to move in yesterday (Tuesday) to begin clearing the site.