THE company that pulled Cupal out of Blackburn has gone through a major boardroom upheaval amid accusations of over-stated profits and over-loaded sales.

Healthcare products giant SSL International closed Cupal at the end of March this year with the loss of more than 100 jobs when it switched production of medicines to Peterlee in the North East.

In the company's annual report, SSL confirmed that four executive directors had resigned, led by chief executive Iain Cater and finance director Paul Sanders.

New chief executive Brian Buchan said the company would end the practice of "trade loading" which involves the advance booking of sales ahead of normal commercial requirements.

A company investigation identified £63 million of trade stock in excess of normal commercial levels.

Mr Buchan said that inquiry led to a separate investigation into the overstatement of sales and profits in previous years.

Despite the shake-up, SSL, which owns brands such as Durex, Scholl and Marigold Gloves, announced a 14% increase in operating profits to £114 million on a turnover of £649 million.