BIG changes at the top have been announced by Pocklington-based Sundora Foods, the UK's leading producer of dried fruit and nuts.

Julian Richards and Keith Burton, pictured, have both been promoted to joint managing directors, while also joining the board - as finance and IT director - is David Figg.

At the same time, Eric Scott has joined the company as its new purchasing director.

The joint men at the top succeed former managing director, Phil Whitfield who left in June.

Mr Richards, 37, who takes responsibility for sales, marketing and finance, joined Sundora Foods in 1999 as retail sales controller and became sales director last April.

He lives at Leavening, near Malton, is a dedicated supporter of Leeds United and enjoys running and hill walking.

Mr Burton, 45, a PhD in chemistry with 20 years experience in production, will be in charge of operations, planning and production.

Mr Burton, his wife, Fiona and five year old daughter live in Westwoodside, near Doncaster.

Mr Figg joins Sundora Foods from its Leeds-based sister company, Kernels. He will oversee a major overhaul of Sundora's IT infrastructure, including developing business-to-business e-commerce.

In his new role as purchasing manager, Eric Scott will be buying dried fruit and nuts from all over the world.

Mr Scott, 51, brings with him 30 years' experience in the food

industry.