SHOP DIRECT’S announcement to cut more than 1,000 jobs could includes posts in Speke and Aintree.

Following Wednesday’s announcement that the company intends to close its call centre in Crosby, the group has now said jobs at its head office in Speke and positions at its mail sorting operation in Aintree could also be affected.

Unions have claimed proposals could threaten a further 250 jobs, including 153 in Liverpool and Sefton, but the company said last night that 1,150 was the total figure in Merseyside.

The company hopes to find alternative positions for some of the affected staff.

A spokesman for call centre industry body Call Northwest revealed yesterday that rival firms have already been in touch offering jobs to staff.

He said there were almost 200 call centres within a 30-minute travelling distance of Liverpool.

David Johnson, Usdaw national officer said yesterday: “Consultation on these latest proposals starts today and we will ensure our members are kept fully informed throughout the consultation process.”