POOLE’S biggest private employer, Sunseeker International, is suspending work for the “vast majority” of its staff.

The luxury boat builder said it would be halting production until the end of April.

It said it was offering support to NHS supply companies during the shutdown.

Last week, the company sent 200 staff home on unpaid leave in an effort to avoid compulsory redundancies.

Its latest move came after the government introduced its wide-ranging curb on people’s movements and said everyone should work from home if possible.

A statement from Sunseeker said: “Following the Prime Minister’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) update yesterday, Sunseeker International is temporarily suspending production until the end of April for the vast majority of employees. Some safety-critical and continuity roles will remain but at a very low level.

“Our actions will ensure that we are in a strong position to resume our substantial new model development programme, manufacturing and deliveries as soon as possible.

“We would like to thank all our staff for their continued and unwavering support during these times. Our gratitude also extends to our suppliers, dealers globally and our loyal customers, keen to get back on the water soon.

“In the interim, the company is working with local NHS supply companies to offer its teams’ support, subject to the guidelines in place.”