The implementation of a far reaching restructuring programme by Ford, which has already resulted in the closure of a Belgium plant yesterday, is expected to see the closure of Ford’s Southampton factory.

A meeting called today at the car manufactures headquarters is expected to foreshadow an announcement. The closure of the factory could result in the loss of over 500 jobs.

Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, said: “I've always had concerns about the factory and it now looks like there will be an announcement tomorrow indicating that it's going to close".