A member of the famous Cadbury dynasty has hit out at plans by foods giant Kraft to takeover the Birmingham chocolate-maker.

Felicity Loudon called the £10.2bn bid a “horror story”.  She said it appalled her that a company which makes hamburger condiments could end up owning the iconic brand. Mrs Loudon’s grandfather Sir Egbert Cadbury was managing director of Cadbury Brothers.

The interiors company boss has waded into the debate surrounding the possibility of the company falling into the hands of the American manufacturer.

In an interview she said: “As a Cadbury, I obviously feel particularly saddened by the possibility of one of the last remaining British icons disappearing into an American plastic cheese company.

“I cannot believe that something can’t be done for totally patriotic reasons.

“My great-grandfather George would be turning in his grave. He not only created a brand that continues to give everyone a buzz and lift when the day gets tough or sad, but also the Bournville model village, which remains an example of caring employers looking after their loyal workforce.”

George Cadbury and his brother Richard was responsible for the move to the famous Bournville plant which offered its workers houses with gardens and contributed to their well-being outside of work.

Mrs Loudon said: “The idea was that no-one should live where a rose could not grow and that families should have houses with gardens and fresh air.

“It’s not just because I am a Cadbury that I feel so English about it. I just feel that it’s really worth fighting for. It appalls me that a company like Kraft that makes something you put on your hamburger could end up owning Cadbury.”

Kraft has defended its credentials and said it makes some of the most acclaimed confectionery brands including Milka, Cote d’Or and Toblerone and has respected their traditions. Last week Kraft was issued with a “put up or shut up” deadline by the City takeover authority.

A takeover panel ruling instructed Kraft Foods to announce its intentions to either make a firm offer or not for the chocolate giant.