A petition to keep open the Britvic and Unilever factories in Norwich is on the brink of 10,000 names.

Eastern Daily Press: Colman's Mustard made by Unilever. Picture: ANTONY KELLYColman's Mustard made by Unilever. Picture: ANTONY KELLY (Image: Archant Norfolk 2016)

In a week since the closure threats were announced, there has been a deluge of people joining the EDP/Evening News They Must be Saved campaign.

More than 9,600 have signed online here, while almost 200 have sent in forms from the newspapers.

Now we are calling for a big push to get to 10,000 - and beyond - and increase the pressure on Britvic and Unilever.

Soft drinks manufacturer Britvic last week announced plans to close its factory in Bracondale, putting more than 200 jobs at risk.

The production of Robinsons and Fruit Shoot which currently takes place at the plant will be transferred to other manufacturing sites in London, Leeds and Rugby. The plant is expected to close towards the end of 2019, following a consultation with affected staff.

In the wake of this announcement Unilever, the maker of Colman's Mustard, said it could close its factory on the site it shares with Britvic.

Our petition says: 'Britvic and Unilever are a crucial part of the city and county's manufacturing base and economy. Robinsons, one of Britvic's brands, has been based in Norwich for more than 90 years, while Unilever produces arguably Norwich and Norfolk's most iconic brand, Colman's Mustard, made in the city for more than 200 years.

'These are products and jobs that must remain in Norwich where they belong.'