And one worker is worried more could be on the way if business continues to slump at the Northern Food factory in Wellington Street.

Fox's announced about 25 to 30 jobs could be cut mostly from the supervisory and junior management level as part of its reorganisation strategy.

At the moment the firm employs around 1,280 people at the factory and head office.

A Fox's spokeswoman said: "The business has shown encouraging improvement over the past year but it is essential that we build on this in the face of aggressive competitor activity.

"We very much regret the need for any job losses but it is vital that we respond to changing patterns of demand.

"This proposal in no way reflects on the performance of our loyal employees and we hope to be able to offer alternative employment where possible. Consultation with employees and their representatives has begun and every assistance will be given to those who may be affected."

She added all food industry businesses faced a quiet period at the beginning of the year.

But one production worker, who asked to remain anonymous, said the downturn seemed to be lasting longer than anything he had experienced in his 20 years of working there.

He said workers were asked at meetings to take either unpaid leave for a couple of months, or be paid for carrying out painting and decorating work around the factory.

He said: "They are saving money rather than getting someone from outside to do it. The factory is not as it used to be. This year it's been the worst. They always say it will slow down, but this time it's lasted since January. We have never had our workers doing painting and decorating here before. I have been doing this since March.

"People are concerned. I don't know what is going to happen. I don't mind decorating, but we just want our jobs guaranteed.

"Job losses would have a huge impact on this area. Most people who work here live in Batley and Dewsbury.

"I know some of the management who have been handed redundancy notices – some of them have been there about 40 years."

The Fox's spokeswoman said it was common practice to ask employees to take unpaid leave or fill in with other jobs during quiet periods.