India drinks firm United Spirits has hired bankers to oversee a sale of its Whyte & Mackay whisky brand for as much as £450 million.

The move comes after drinks giant Diageo bought a controlling stake in the group, triggering competition concerns.

Investment banks Rothschild, Rabobank and Standard Chartered are thought to have been appointed to run the sale.

Vivian Imerman, the former owner of Whyte & Mackay is reported to be one of the potential bidders for the firm.