Union chiefs are remaining optimistic more than 100 jobs could be saved at Bridgnorth’s biggest private employer after tours by two prospective buyers.

But Unite union officials said it was too early to say whether there would be a bid for part of the Novelis operation in Stourbridge Road.

Two potential buyers have had a look at part of the operation – the printed confectionery packaging business – this week, with the second visiting on Thursday.

Caroline Crolley, the union’s Black Country regional industrial officer, said: “We are extremely optimistic, particularly about one of the buyers.”

She said of the mood at the factory: “It’s subdued shock at the moment.”

And she said some workers could look to leaving the factory earlier than its potential closing date of the end of April.

She said: “One of the things we want to discuss is if anyone is able to find alternative employment whether they can get an early release.”

Union officials have said previously they were confident up to 120 jobs could be saved at the site if part of it is sold as a going concern.

Up to 319 jobs are expected to be lost in the closure.

The union official has said she was very confident an offer would be on the table.

Community leaders have spoken of their sadness at the news of the closure.

William Parr, whose Bridgnorth East and Astley Abbots ward includes the Novelis plant, has said it was a “devastating blow” to the employees and their families as well as the local economy.

Novelis makes aluminium rolled products and recycles drinks cans in 11 countries, employing a total of about 11,600 people and, in the last financial year, it reported revenue of 8.7 billion dollars (£5.5 billion).