THE Bishops of Blackburn and Burnley have said the loss of jobs at BAE systems is a 'cause for great sadness'.

BAE Systems is planning to cut almost 2,000 jobs in its military, maritime and intelligence services.

The defence giant said the aim is to streamline its business and have a 'sharper' competitive edge, with redundancies spread over at least two years.

The biggest cutback will be in the military air business, with 1,400 jobs set to be axed across five sites over the next three years, including Warton and Samlesbury in Lancashire, where the Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft assembly takes place.

Bishop Philip North, Bishop of Burnley and Bishop Julian Henderson, Bishop of Blackburn, said: "BAE Systems is an important part of the lifeblood of this great county and the loss of these jobs would be keenly felt by many, not least those directly affected.

"Our thoughts and prayers now and in the coming days and weeks will be with those who have heard the news today.

"We understand companies sometimes have to take difficult decisions and we note BAE has pledged to support all those whose jobs are under threat, which is encouraging.

"Nonetheless, the period ahead will be a time of great worry and uncertainty for BAE staff and for their loved ones.

“So we also encourage local communities to join together in support for their neighbours, friends and families."