Porcelain company could be sold

The firm provided the prime minister's present for the Queen's 80th birthday

The owner of the famous fine porcelain maker Royal Worcester has confirmed the company could be sold.

Royal Worcester and Spode said it was one option being looked at by KPMG, the accountants employed to look at the firm's future.

The porcelain firm, founded in 1751, said a complete restructuring begun five years ago was almost complete.

The firm added that any decision would be taken "on the basis of what is right for the business".

The options being considered include the main share holder Alan Finden-Crofts selling his shares, remaining in his current position, or having a smaller role, Royal Worcester and Spode said.

The firm has been hit by changing tastes and cheaper imports in recent years and work was moved from the Severn Street factory to Stoke-on-Trent and abroad to cut costs two years ago.