VIMTO maker Nichols has announced the departure of its group finance director, Taylor Purkis.

The Newton-le-Willows-based soft drinks firm announced that Mr Purkis will leave on September 7.

Chief executive and former group finance director Brendan Hynes will step into the role until a replacement can be appointed.

A company statement said the Nichols board wished Mr Purkis the best for the future and thanked him for his contribution to the company.

Last month, Nichols revealed strong interim results ahead of market forecasts, and said it expected to deliver full- year results that will be better than the previous year.

Its famous Vimto soft drink is sold in more than 65 different countries.

The Vimto brand has developed an impressive market in the Middle East, particularly during the current Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

During this period, the drink is seen as an energy-boosting accompaniment to the evening meal after a day of fasting.

The Nichols group also operates a successful draught soft drinks dispensing business under the Cabana, Beacon and Cariel & Dayla brands.