Outsourcing threat to Spitfire firm

Bifrangi, which was formerly known as Ambrose Shardlow’s, in Blackburn, Sheffield, has now called on the Government to intervene to help save the jobs.

The firm, which makes crankshafts for engines and even made parts for Spitfires during the Second World War, was told of the decision by engine maker Cummins.

General manager Paul Chilton said Cummins had sought new tenders for some contracts. Some Sheffield work had gone to firms in India and Germany.

He added: “Cummins’ decision will have a devastating impact on the business. We have been supplying Cummins for 40 years and it has been one of our main three customers.

“We have written to Sheffield MPs asking them to lobby Cummins on our behalf.

“For the life of me, I cannot understand why we have lost out to Indian and German competitors. Geographically, we are the closest to Cummins, which is based in Daventry in Northamptonshire.

“We submitted the cheapest tender and our quality score is exceptional.”

Bifrangi employs 121 staff at its plant and said about 50 people could lose their jobs.

Nobody at Cummins was available for comment.