CALLS have been made for a Hampshire chocolate maker to be stripped of its Royal Warrant if it closes its Winchester factory.

Bendicks has made upmarket mint biscuits in Winchester for more than 40 years and was granted a warrant by The Queen in 1962.

It is proudly displayed over the entrance to the factory in Moorside Road, Winnall.

As revealed by the Daily Echo, Bendicks’ German owner, Storck, is considering transferring production to east Germany with the loss of 115 Winchester jobs.

A formal consultation has started with staff and is due to last at least 30 days.

In Winchester there has been dismay at the news of the likely loss of the lastremaining local firm with a n a t i o n a l l y - known brand.

City councillor Dominic Hiscock, portfolio holder for economic prosperity, said: “Storck would have to lose the Royal Warrant if they were not supporting the British economy.”

A spokeswoman for Buckingham Palace said she could not comment on Bendicks. Asked whether the transfer to Germany would automatically mean the withdrawal of the warrant, she replied: “There is no requirement for the company to be British-owned or UK-based.”

However most of the highly-prized warrants have traditionally recognised British-owned and British-based firms.

They are a mark of recognition to individuals or companies who have supplied goods or services for at least five years to The Queen, Duke of Edinburgh or Prince of Wales.

There are around 850 warrant holders ranging from Bentley cars to Lea & Perrins Worcestershire sauce. Holders are allowed to display the relevant Royal Arms and ‘By Appointment’ legend on products, premises, stationery, vehicles and advertising.