NATIONAL LOTTERY operator Camelot is believed to be planning a cost-cutting operation that could see around 100 jobs lost from its Watford head office.

The high profile firm in Tolpits Lane is thought to be undergoing a comprehensive expenditure review in light of a three year slow down in ticket sales.

Many of its staff, who live in and around the town, are expected to have their bonuses frozen.

It is also believed two directors, deputy chief executive Mr David Clark and head of external affairs Ms Sue Slipman, will be cut from the board as part of the shake-up.

The overhaul of operations is being undertaken by chief executive Mrs Dianne Thompson.

She is seeking to cut Camelot's operating costs by ten per cent in a bid to ride out a continuing decline in sales, despite an expensive recent rebranding exercise using the comedian Billy Connolly.

The internal review is expected to conclude later this month.

But while changes are certainly under way, Camelot has refused officially to confirm the details of the job cuts.

A spokeswoman said: "We are undertaking a strategic review to make sure we maintain efficiency.

"The review is ongoing so it would be impossible to discuss what the outcome might be."

Camelot employees who are made redundant, however, can draw some comfort from Hertfordshire's good economic prospects.

According to July's figures, the county's unemployment rate stands at 1.5 per cent, which compares favourably with the national average of 3.1 per cent.

Mr Roger Gegan, chief executive of Watford Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said: "While our first thoughts are with those who may lose their jobs, the good news is that the area is thriving economically.

"There are lots of jobs going right across the board and provided people have the necessary skills and experience, they shouldn't have too much trouble in securing employment."

October 2, 2002 12:30