THE food tycoon interested in Holland’s Pies owner Northern Foods has broken his silence – and criticised the firm’s bosses.

Harry Ramsden’s owner Ranjit Boparan, who has been given access to Leeds-based Northern’s books, said the company had ‘declined’ in recent years.

Mr Boparan already has shares in Northern, but the Holland’s owner is attempting a merger with Irish sandwich-maker Essenta Foods.

Mr Boparan said: “They have had a few leaders there over the past five years. The big difference is I have been leading my business for 17 years.”

It is unclear what impact either deal would have on the 300 staff at Holland’s Pies in Blackburn Road, Baxenden.