MORE than 40 jobs have been saved after fire threatened the continued presence of a white-goods operation in Kent.

Whirlpool has kept its distribution business in the county after rejecting options to move elsewhere.

It has invested £20million in a new complex at Magnitude, a distribution and warehouse park at Larkfield, near Aylesford.

Washing machines, fridges, freezers and other white goods were destroyed in the blaze at Transfesa, Paddock Wood, in July last year.

It was one of the largest ever seen in Kent and European factories stepped up production to fulfil UK orders.

Whirlpool was forced into temporary accommodation before finding the 240,000 sq ft premises in Larkfield.

Locate in Kent, the inward investment agency, played a role in persuading Whirlpool to stay in the county.

Chief executive Paul Wookey said: "We are delighted that Whirlpool is to remain in Kent and that the area’s advantages were recognised above other UK locations, including the West Midlands."

Whirlpool’s Ray Isted added: "Our team in the county have risen to the challenge of operating in Kent following the fire.

"The decision to remain in Kent is testimony to their commitment as well as the business case presented by Maidstone."