Wolseley is to cut jobs and close distribution centres in Didcot and Chorley.
The plumbing and heating supplier's cost-cutting exercise affects 133 jobs at Chorley DC and 76 at Didcot DC – where the lease expires in August this year. A further 60 permanent positions at the transport out-bases that support the two depots will also go. There will be a period of consultation of 90 days for affected employees.

'Wolseley remains committed to delivering excellent service to its customers,' said Rob Marchbank, chief executive officer - Europe and managing director of Wolseley UK.

'The prolonged nature and severity of the global economic recession and unprecedented market conditions are driving the need for greater productivity and to operate even more efficiently.

'Any job losses are regrettable, however, there is a need to adjust the business to the prevailing market conditions.'