HUNDREDS of jobs could be set to go at North West water giant United Utilities.

The Warrington-based company admitted last night it was consulting with union leaders on ways in which “we can maintain the strength of our business”.

But one worker at the firm told the Daily Post employees were told 300 jobs were at risk and compulsory losses could not be ruled out.

The worker claimed the division of the company which helps maintain the region’s water pipes would bear the brunt of the losses.

The employee added: “It is disgraceful a company which makes millions of pound in profits is willing to cut jobs.

“These are the people who work to maintain the pipes in the ground and the public should know what is going on.”

United Utilities refused to confirm how many jobs were under threat.

A spokesman said: “We are consulting with the unions to explore how we can maintain the strength of our business given the current economic challenges.

“Our aim is to continue to deliver high-quality water and wastewater services to our seven million customers and keep their water bills low.”

It is believed many of the workers in Warrington are represented by the Unite and Unison unions.