The commendation comes after operators Magnox and site owners the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) announced that generation at Reactor One is to end in February 2012.

Prospect National Secretary Mike Graham said: “To have been a consistent and safe source of vital electricity since 1967 is a record to be proud of and one that sends out a positive message in terms of future new nuclear plant at Oldbury.

“As one of the world’s oldest nuclear reactors we recognise that the decision to bring forward the closure date was made purely on financial grounds, and congratulate staff for the diligence and expertise which has ensured the plant continued to operate past its original deadline of 2008, providing an additional £300m to fund the NDA’s decommissioning programme.

“The transition to defueling and decommissioning operations will mean an on going requirement for skilled staff on site. This continuity in employment will also ensure that there is a ready and willing skilled workforce in place in anticipation of the construction of the new Oldbury B plant.”