Stewart gets new five-year deal

Stewart asked to begin her jail term as soon as possible

Martha Stewart may be heading to jail, but the company that oversees her stable of books, magazines and television shows is staying loyal.

Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia has given its founder a new five-year contract worth $900,000 (£500,000) annually, with bonuses of up to $1.35m.

She will not be paid during her five month sentence, starting on 8 October.

The lifestyle guru was convicted of lying about the sale of shares she owned in biotech firm ImClone Systems.

Stewart quit as chief executive of her own company after being indicted, and earnings have suffered during the trial.

Many investors say that following her release, Stewart will be key in rebuilding the strength of the brand.

Stewart will be given the role of chief editorial and media director, as well as getting a chauffeur-driven car and a $100,000 expense account.

As well as the prison term, she also was given five months house arrest.

Stewart asked to begin the sentence as soon as possible so she could put her "nightmare" behind her and reclaim her "good life".