Management battle to save Axminster Carpets

A national newspaper has claimed that the management of Axminster Carpets is battling to mount a rescue bid to save the 250-year-old company.

The Sunday Times claimed yesterday that Josh Dutfield, the managing director, is in negotiations with financial backers about saving the historic manufacturer from collapse.

Meanwhile, more than 6,000 people have signed a petition in a bid to save the firm and a food bank for workers and their families has been launched at the town's Tesco supermarket.

Administrators Duff & Phelps said Axminster Carpets continued to trade while "all available options" were being pursued by the company.

Axminster employs 400 people in Devon and makes carpets for the Queen as well as some of Britain’s finest stately homes.