Talks have taken place over the future of one of Scotland’s three Harris Tweed mills.
Workers at the Carloway Mill in the Western Isles face uncertainty after the manufacturing facility temporarily stopped production.
Staff have not been paid this week, it is understood, and they are anxious about what happens next.
They were informed bosses hope the mill will reopen next week. No details were given for the reason behind the present shutdown. However, a three day week has been in operation for a period.
Around 15 people are employed at the plant – which is the smallest mill in the industry – plus there are a similar number of self-employed islanders who weave yarn into tweed at their homes within the Carloway community on the west coast of Lewis.
Closure loomed in early 2017 but a management buyout involving Tony Loftus and Annie Macdonald saved the business. Ms Macdonald has since left the venture.
Western Isles Council has financially assisted the business in the recent past and the outstanding balance of a loan is believed to be around the £80,000 mark.
A spokesman for the local authority said: “The council has been in discussions with the mill owners and we continue to monitor the situation.”
Development agency Highlands and Islands Enterprise has provided half a million of funding support for tweed production for the former textile company operating that the Carloway site.
Some £545,000 was invested over a period of around eight years.
A HIE spokesperson said: “We have been in contact with the owner of the property with a view to whether or not HIE might be able to provide any support for his plans.
“These discussions are so far inconclusive.”
Local councillor Ranald Fraser highlighted the role the mill plays in the community.
Mr Fraser said: “The Carloway Mill is a very important employer in the area, producing a highly regarded local product.
“I am aware as everybody else is locally of the recent developments these past few weeks and hope that matters can be resolved as soon as possible to the benefit of all concerned.”