SCOTTISH Secretary David Mundell met with bosses and union reps at a threatened seafood factory today as campaigners warned that closure would unleash an “economic tsunami” on the surrounding community.

Pinneys of Scotland produces smoked salmon, shellfish, party snacks and ready meals for Marks and Spencer. But its owner Young’s wants to move production to Grimsby.

The plant is located in the Dumfriesshire town of Annan, which is within Mr Mundell’s constituency.

When temporary and seasonal workers are taken into account, closure could mean around 700 people losing their jobs in a town whose population numbers just 5,247.

Today, a Unite Community-organised demonstration gathered outside the factory while Mr Mundell was meeting bosses and union reps.

The protesters were joined by Labour MSP Colin Smyth, who said: “If this factory closes, it will be an economic tsunami for the people of Annan.

“We’re talking about 700 jobs when you include temporary and seasonal workers. And that will have a massive impact on a community whose working population is only around five-and-a-half thousand.

“It’s absolutely crucial they find a new buyer [for the site] or change Young’s position.”

Mr Smyth stressed that the firm was integral to the fabric of the town, saying: “There are whole families who have worked at Pinneys – mums, dads and their kids as well.

“Many of those families have supported the company, worked for the company for literally decades.”

Local community activist Sharon McGregor said: “I’ve come to support the local community and workforce.

“We’re struggling for jobs in this area at the moment, and it’s a big company that employs a lot of people.”

The Scottish Secretary had talks with the company on two occasions last week, but today’s meeting was the first at which union reps were present.

Workers at the site are organised by Unite, whose convener Kelly Graham said: “If they close Pinneys, they’ll be closing down the entire Annan community.

“If we let that happen, we’d be as well closing the door and throwing away the key for the town. We are saying no to that, loud and clear.”

Young’s and the Scotland Office did not respond to the Star’s requests for comment.