Final piece of 'iconic' Denby Pottery signed

The final piece of Denby Pottery - which is closing after centuries of production - has been signed by the man who designed the range more than 35 years ago.

Finished in the firm's "iconic" Imperial Blue glaze, the bowl was collected and signed by Richard Eaton, the company said on Monday.

The Derbyshire-based firm, which was founded in 1809, appointed administrators on 31 March after citing struggles with rising energy and labour costs.

In a post on its Facebook page, the company said it was "truly grateful for the outpouring of love and support at this difficult time".

Announcing its decision to appoint administrators, the company said reduced demand, "escalating" employment costs and soaring energy costs had "squeezed the business financially".

A #SaveDenby campaign encouraging people to buy more products was launched, but administrators said they failed to find a buyer, leading to the end of production .

Another petition, titled "support the ceramics industry and protect British manufacturing jobs and skills", has reached more than 105,000 signatures, passing the threshold to be considered for a debate in Parliament.

Linsey Farnsworth, Labour MP for Amber Valley, said she had "promised to fight for Denby Pottery until the very last moment".