STOCK WATCH

CLEANING pioneer Xeros Technology jumped higher after inking an agreement with a leading washing machine manufacturer.

The company, spun out of a university upstart in Sheffield, has signed an agreement with an unnamed partner to make washing machines with its leading cleaning technology.

It produces pea-sized plastic spheres which absorb dirt from clothing, replacing the need to use excessive water.

Shares soared 6.1pc, or 14p, to 243p as a result.