WORKERS have today left Southampton's Ford factory for the last time.

The final shift at the Transit assembly plant in Wide Lane, Swaythling, ended at midday.

A steady stream of workers and contractors entered the site throughout the morning to collect belongings and say goodbyes.

 

Former shop steward Bill Chandler played the Last Post on his bugle outside gate 1 as 12pm ticked. He said: "I retired through ill health. I always say I have my health to the company and it failed!

"I have good memories of the place as it was able to supply a good living to my family."

Phil Sayers, 52, from Hedge End, is retiring after 33 and a half years with the company.

He said: "Everyone has been getting on with it and saying goodbyes. There have been no worries."

Some members of staff are currently reminiscing at the on-site social club.

Today marks the end of 60 years of van manufacturing in the city.

Some 2m Ford Transit vans were produced at the Swaythling plant.

As reported Ford is now focusing its Transit van production in Turkey.