East Lothian Courier | News | Fears for Corsie jobs

Monday, 12th May, 2008

Published: Thursday, 8th May, 2008 10:10

Fears for Corsie jobs

BUSINESS leaders are to discuss possible ways of assisting troubled Haddington-based Corsie Group, amid growing fears for the company’s 35-strong workforce.

The sports and leisure goods firm established by ex-world champion bowler Richard Corsie 11 years ago, appears to be in meltdown following the resignations of its founder, chairman and two other directors in just over three weeks.

Shares in the company, based at Gateside Commerce Park, have been suspended since April 25 pending a statement on its financial status.

Neither Mr Corsie, whose departure was confirmed on Friday – nor the company – have revealed the reasons behind the crisis.

The turmoil unfolded last month when former Scotland Grand Slam rugby skipper Jim Aitken stood down from the board. Shares were suspended before non-executive director Vikram Lall, chairman David Mathewson and Mr Corsie also quit.

No-one from the company would comment.

It is understood that replacement board members are being sought to join finance director David McArthur and sales director Graham Robertson in running its affairs.

Mr Aitken, who reportedly invested around £450,000 in the company when he joined the board late last year, said: “I’ve got absolutely no comment to make.”

When the Courier attempted to contact surviving board members, a staff member claimed: “It’s business as usual.”

East Lothian Council’s representative on the board of Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce, Councillor Stuart MacKinnon, said: “We have a board meeting in Dalkeith on May 15, and this will be raised as a matter of priority.

“We need to look at securing the future of Corsie Group and its employees for the local community.

“The board will consider what assistance we can give.”

County MSP Iain Gray said: “Like everyone else, I’m in the dark about precisely what is happening at Corsie Group, but clearly I’m concerned when any local firm experiences difficulties.

“It is obviously a very worrying time for the employees and I hope for their sakes that the future of the company can be secured, lifting the current uncertainty which they are working under.”

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