Shocked workers at city centre firm Friends Life were told they would lose their jobs during a meeting held in Coventry Cathedral.
More than 400 workers were given the devastating news at a meeting held on Wednesday.
Friends Life bosses had originally hoped to discuss the closure of the Axa offices in Corporation Street and Chapel Street at the Britannia Hotel.
But a few hours before the meeting a hotel function room flooded, forcing bosses to rethink their plans.
They opted for the cathedral – drawing criticism from staff.
The parent of one worker told the Telegraph it was “entirely inappropriate” to use the cathedral to deliver the news.
She said: “This building is a beacon of hope and reconciliation not only to the people of Coventry but throughout the world.
“Over the years we have visited the cathedral as a family and found it a place for quiet contemplation. Now my son feels that it will only represent bad memories.
“This is unfortunate because previously it has always represented forgiveness and triumph over adversity.
“Some of these people have been employed by Axa for almost 40 years, others have mortgages to pay and young families to feed.
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