David Shepherd, a key lieutenant in Sir Philip Green's retail empire, has stepped down from his position as chief operating officer at Arcadia.

Representatives for Arcadia confirmed that the 55-year-old businessman, who was formerly brand director of Topman for more than 13 years, was taking early retirement.

He has been with the company for more than 25 years, beginning with a Saturday shop floor role at the Oxford Circus branch of Topshop.

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He was credited for for turning around the Topman brand's fortunes during his time in charge.

UK manufacturing output tumbled at the fastest rate in seven years in August, as Brexit uncertainty and the global economic slowdown hit demand.

The IHS Markit/CIPS UK manufacturing purchasing managers' index (PMI) fell to 47.4 in August, down from a reading of 48 in July.

A reading above 50 indicates growth.

IHS Markit, which compiles the monthly survey, said UK manufacturers were stifled by "political uncertainty" and "global trade tensions" during the month.

Channel tunnel operator GetLink said it is "ready for a no-deal Brexit" ahead of the UK's imminent exit from the EU.

The group, which owns Eurotunnel, said it is prepared to deal with new customs regulations if a no-deal scenario takes place.

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GetLink said it will introduce "pit stop" areas for customs controls to take place as well as construct larger parking areas for trucks entering the UK as part of its measures.

The firm, which rebranded from Eurotunnel in 2017, said it has worked with the French and UK governments to ensure customers have the "fastest and simplest route" across the Channel, no matter how the UK exits the EU.

It said that passengers who use Shuttle and Eurostar trains will see "no change to the immigration formalities" they currently pass through.

GetLink said it would be most impacted by the transportation of foods, where a system of "pre-declaration" will be introduced on each side of the Channel, before trucks arrive at the Folkestone and Coquelles terminals respectively.