HANTSPORT, N.S. -- A Nova Scotia paperboard mill that has operated for almost 85 years ends production today.

Minas Basin Pulp and Power spokesman Robert Patzelt says 135 people are losing their jobs at the plant in Hantsport.

However, he says about 40 employees will be offered work at the C-K-F Inc. plant that manufactures paper plates and other types of containers next door.

The factory is one of two paper mills that have closed permanently in small Nova Scotia communities this year.

Both Resolute Forest Products and Minas Basin have cited competitive conditions in the paper industry.

Patzelt says it's a "solemn day" that marks the end of an era in the small community of Hantsport.