More than 400 jobs have been put at risk by Argos' plans to move part of its operation to Leicestershire.

The catalogue retailer is to consolidate its Midlands distribution at its warehouse at Magna Park, near Lutterworth.

The move means the closure of its depot in Corby, placing 440 jobs at risk. Workers in Corby, who are employed by transport firm Wincanton, will be offered transfers to the Argos depot at Magna Park, it was announced yesterday

An Argos spokesman said the changes would start in the summer and should be completed in the autumn.

He said the move was being carried out "to reduce network costs and create a better balance between the flow of goods to and from the Midlands''.

The Magna Park site is easily accessible to the major trunk routes of the M6, M1 and A14.

He said: "All affected Corby employees are eligible to transfer to the Argos site at Magna Park. Wincanton has entered into consultation with them and their elected representatives."