EXPORTERS in the North West took another pounding from the high value of sterling last month, according to figures released today.

The monthly survey of manufacturing industry -- which employs tens of thousands in East Lancashire -- by the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply said manufacturers reported a sharp decline in exports orders with most blaming the high value of the pound.

And companies linked to the car industry said the uncertainty surrounding Rover had contributed to a slow down in orders growth within the UK.

In East Lancashire firms including Caligen Firm, of Accrington, and Viktor Achter, of Burnley, have already announced job losses because of production cuts at Rover.

The survey also showed output and new orders growing at a slower rate than in the previous month.

Analysts said the figures would throw the spotlight on this week's interest rate decision by the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee.

Neil Parker, senior European economist at Royal Bank of Scotland said: "This data continues to indicate the damage the strong pound is doing and argues against further interest rate hikes. All eyes will be on the MPC rate announcement tomorrow."