SOME of the work lost at a distribution centre in the North will be moved to Somerset by the end of the year.

Shoe company Clarks has confirmed plans to close its Kendal centre, in Cumbria, where it had operated for the past 40 years.

Staff there have received a letter announcing plans to close and decommission the site, subject to consultation, with 53 jobs at risk.

Operations are set to move to the firm's distribution centres at Street and Venlo in the Netherlands.

A Clarks spokesman said: "Kendal has been, and always will be, of great importance to Clarks, having played a significant role in our history.

"We have a strong duty of care to our employees and will ensure they are fully supported during this time.

"Clarks is committed to leaving a positive legacy in Kendal and will encourage the site to be used to create opportunities which will benefit the area."

At its peak, K Shoes had factories around Cumbria and 235 shops.

Shoe manufacturing ended in Kendal in 2003.

The spokesman added: "Following a meaningful consultation with Community the Union, we have taken the difficult decision to close our distribution centre in Kendal.

"Our Kendal operations will move to our distribution centres at Street, Somerset, and Venlo, Netherlands by the end of 2021.

"We have a strong duty of care to our employees and will ensure they are fully supported during this time."