THE boss of British supermarket giant Asda today took over at the helm of the parent company of a Burnley pillow manufacturer.

Archie Norman, who is currently chairman of the retail group and deputy chairman of the Conservative Party, has been appointed non-executive chairman at French Group, parent firm of Northern Textiles, of Trafalgar Street.

The businessman has struck a deal with a number of shareholders of the group which will enable him to buy up to two million shares in the company over the next five years.

"We are delighted that Archie Norman has agreed to join us and put his vast experience behind French," said Bill Gleave, chief executive of French and founder of Northern Textiles.

"The new management team has made good progress in transforming the group and Archie's help and guidance will be invaluable as we develop the business." Mr Norman will continue in his role with Asda during the transition period following its acquisition by American giant Walmart.

"I have known Bill Gleave for some time and admired his success in turning around and developing textile businesses," said Mr Norman.

The share options acquired by Mr Norman enable him to buy shares at prices varying from 35.5p to 71p. The current price is 42.5p.

Attracting Mr Norman to the post of chairman of French will be seen as a major coup by the Manchester-based textile firm. Asda is a £6.6 billion group compared with French's market capitalisation of just over £6 million.

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