Boss's exit spurs JDG sale gossip

SPORTSWEAR chain John David Group may be the next retailer to be sold, after the abrupt departure of executive chairman Roger Best.

He appears to have left following a bust-up with founders John Wardle and David Makin, who own 60% of the shares.

The duo, who still sit on the board, are considering an exit. Former finance director Peter Cowgill has been recruited to head the group and consider 'all strategic options'. Cowgill has run his own accountancy firm since leaving John David in 2001.

Best had been trying to turn the business around. Profits for the year to January will be at the lower end of expectations, but trading for the last six weeks has been 'encouraging'. Best will get a £210,000 pay-off, which is 12 months' salary.