Branston Pickle maker Premier Foods said today it will close two factories in a move putting more than 400 jobs at risk.

The owner of a Branston Pickle factory wrecked by a fire in October today estimated it lost at least £10m (€14.1m) in sales because of the blaze.

Strong sales of Branston Pickle and Typhoo Tea helped City newcomer Premier Foods to unwrap a healthy set of maiden results today.