Jobs at an under-threat Blackpool factory look safe after Burton's Foods announced it was looking to end production at a site on the Wirral.

The proposed restructuring will safeguard more than 500 jobs at Blackpool's Devonshire Road site.

The company, which makes Wagon Wheels, Jammie Dodgers and Maryland Cookies, as well as a range of Cadbury's chocolate biscuits, was bought by private equity firm Duke Street Capital earlier this year.

Paul Kitchener, chief executive of Burton's Foods says: While Burton's Foods is a successful business, we operate in a highly competitive environment against a backdrop of overcapacity in the UK biscuit market.

"It is clear that we need to be proactive in anticipating future market, customer, consumer and cost challenges. This proposal in no way reflects the commitment of our employees at Moreton. However, we believe this is the best solution to embrace changes in the market and secure the long-term success of Burton's Foods and its remaining 2,400 employees".

Products currently produced at the Moreton site will be transferred to the firm's three other factories, which in the long run will create a further 100 jobs around the country.

Burton's Foods are now set to consult with employees and their unions before making their final decision.

Burton's was founded in the 1930s under the name of Burton's Gold Medal Biscuits and was acquired by Associated British Foods in 1949.