BOSSES at Heysham Power Station are considering the future of one of its employees after he pleaded guilty to downloading child pornography from the internet.

John Burdett, aged 40, was ordered to do 240 hours community service by magistrates after admitting making and possessing indecent material.

No formal action has yet been announced by company bosses but matters came to ahead this week when it was revealed that contractors working on the site announced they didn't want to work with Burdett.

One worker told the Citizen: "There's an awful lot of unrest about this and obviously everyone is talking about it.

"A lot of workers on staff are very unhappy that no action has been taken but they are keeping their heads down for fear of action against them by the management."

But this week some contractors voiced those concerns to their representative and made it clear they would not work with or near him.

"Maybe they felt they could express their anger a little more openly because they don't work directly for the company," said the source.

He added that something needed to be done because in emotive situations like this people could end up getting hurt.

"If it's seen that nothing is done then people can get the wrong impression.

It's a tricky situation for the management but they can't just do nothing," he added.

Burdett was not available for comment and is currently not at work.

He is reported to be attending the TT trials in the Isle of Man.

Bosses at the station have confirmed they are considering what to do next but stressed they would not tolerate intimidation or violence.

A spokesman said: "British Energy is considering its position in light of recent events surrounding Mr Burdett and the court's decision on Wednesday May 15.

British Energy also

confirms that Mr Burdett is not presently on site.

"British Energy will not tolerate violent behaviour from any individuals of groups of staff, including contractors, under any circumstances.

"Issues of this nature are dealt with via the appropriate disciplinary procedure in accordance with company policy."