THREE directors at home shopping and educational supplies group Findel plc, a major East Lancashire employer, shared bonuses of £328,000 last year, according to the company's annual report.

Its Express Gifts arm employs more than 500 people in East Lancashire from its huge warehouse in Church, a call centre in Clayton-le-Moors and premises in Nelson.

Chairman Keith Chapman, 58, received a £143,000 bonus and £300,000 salary in the financial year to March 31. Together with benefits his total pay package for the year was £464,000, up from £303,000 the previous year.

Chief executive Tony Johnson, 57, received a £115,000 bonus and £243,000 salary as part of a £378,000 package, up from £245,000. Director and company secretary Ivan Bolton, 57, received a £70,000 bonus and £148,000 salary as part of a £232,000 package, up from £150,000.

Bonuses are paid based on the group reaching certain financial targets. During the year group sales from continuing operations increased by 20 per cent.