Tom Jones opposing Burberry plant closure

CARDIFF, Wales, Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Welsh singer Tom Jones has come out in opposition to the Burberry clothing brand's decision to close a plant in Wales.

The BBC said the singer, who was born in the Welsh town of Pontypridd, has petitioned for the reversal of the company's decision to close its plant in nearby Treorchy in March, calling it a vital part of the local community.

The closure of the plant would result in the loss of 300 local jobs in the Welsh village.

"As a local boy, I know how important this factory has been to the community in the Rhondda," Jones said. "I therefore urge the Burberry management to withdraw their plans to close their Treorchy factory."

The 66-year-old "It's Not Unusual" singer has been joined in his efforts against Burberry by actors Ioan Gruffudd, Rhys Ifans and Emma Thompson, along with opera singer Bryn Terfel and a workers' campaign.

The campaign has included an earlier demonstration at Burberry's London stores and will be fortified with a second protest scheduled to take place next Saturday, the BBC reported.