Three workers have died and a fourth worker is still missing following a massive explosion at Wood Treatment Ltd in Bosley three weeks ago.

And today Council leader Michael Jones has said up to 20 employees are facing redundancies as of today.

Councillor Michael Jones said: “I’m appalled at the treatment of these people by the mill owners. Whatever business is done by them from the site should deliver local benefit.

“As the Leader of the Council I’m asking the questions as to why the company feels it can just walk away from these people and offer almost no support.

“How do they expect people who are traumatised to cope financially? There’s a lack of clarity here and we need to make sure that they are putting people first.”

The Council has been providing a range of support to affected employees and residents at a drop-in centre located in the village and Coun Jones says this will continue for as along as the mill workers need it.

The support has included detailed advice around employment and benefits, with a drop in centre set up in the village.

Coun Jones added: “The Council will not walk away from these people and we will ,do everything we can to make sure these people have what they need to rebuild their lives. Bosley and its residents are an important part of our community.

“They won’t be forgotten by anybody.”

Around 50 workers were employed at Wood Flour Mill, which is part of The Boden Group.

Emergency Crews continue to work at the scene. Three bodies discovered at the site are believed to belong to that of Dorothy Bailey.

William Barks, and Derek Moore have been found at the scene. Further remains were found a week ago but has not been formally identified.

Police have confirmed that the explosion is a potential homicide investigation and are working with the Health and Safety Executive on the investigation.

The Express has not received a comment from Wood Treatment Ltd in relation to the announcement.