Hundreds of jobs are under threat at an engineering firm that is believed to be close to calling in administrators.

Unions are claiming that 700 jobs could be lost at the Bothwell-based business WJ Harte.

The construction union Ucatt said it had taken calls from a number of workers at the plant who had been sent home recently.

It believes the firm is close to calling in administrators, while WJ Harte is expected to make an official statement on the situation on Tuesday afternoon.

Harry Frew, regional secretary of Ucatt, said: "It’s extremely disappointing to hear that WJ Harte is facing such difficulties threatening hundreds of jobs. We hope that a buyer can be found and jobs preserved. UCATT is seeking a meeting with the administrators to establish what the future holds for our members.

"The impact of these potential job losses across central Scotland will be a major blow to workers and their families. It is imperative that everything is done to safeguard these valuable construction jobs."

WJ Harte was founded 40 years ago and provides engineering services to housebuilders.