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A Teesside MP has said the successful sale of British Steel to a Turkish firm "remains strong", giving added hope to workers in the region.

Labour MP for Redcar, Anna Turley announced the news after holding a conference call with the British Steel Support Group on Tuesday.

Following the call, she praised British Steel workers and customers for their hard work during the uncertain times since the firm went into compulsory liquidation in May.

In a statement, Ms Turley, said: "We had a positive conference call with the British Steel Support Group this afternoon and the prospect for a successful sale to Ataer remains strong.

"A large team from the company have been in the UK looking in detail at the operational, regulatory and financial situation at British Steel as part of the due diligence process.

(Image: Evening Gazette)

"They have also had initial meetings with all the trade unions which I understand were positive, and they will be consulting on their plans with the unions and the work force in the coming weeks.

"Officials are working at pace and there are no delays to the original timeframe of 6 to 8 weeks.

"It is business as usual at British Steel and relations with the supply chain and customers remain strong, but to maintain that confidence the priority is getting a sale across the line as soon as possible."

She added: "Once again, tribute really must be paid to the workers, supply chain businesses and customers for their hard work and loyalty to British Steel during the uncertainty.

"Without it, we would not be looking at a successful sale."

In August, the Official Receiver confirmed an agreement had been signed with Ataer Holding AS - a Turkish firm which will hold exclusive talks to buy the steel firm.

After several bids were received, it’s now hoped Ataer will buy the whole business, giving hope to the thousands of workers at risk, including those at Lackenby and Skinningrove.