The new Tory high command has announced that three of the party's most senior staff are to leave Conservative Central Office.

The sackings come as Michael Howard seeks to shake-up the Tories media machine.

Paul Baverstock, who was drafted in by Iain Duncan Smith as director of strategic communications, is to leave Smith Square.

Seen as a mediawise operator he was known to text senior Conservatives to remind them to smile during television appearances.

Likened to a Tory Alastair Campbell, he was responsible for an earlier clear out at Smith Square.

He is joined at the exit door by media director Nick Wood, who was recruited by William Hague.

A former lobby journalist with The Times and the Daily Express, 52-year-old Wood is a well known figure in Westminster media circles.

Wood played a key role in the 2001 general election and was promoted after Duncan Smith's election as Tory leader.

Nick Longworth, the party's head of broadcasting, will also be leaving Central Office.

Speaking on Wednesday, Tory chairman Dr Liam Fox said: "On behalf of the board, I would like to express my sincere thanks to Paul, Nick and Nick for their work on behalf of the party.

"Paul Baverstock has made a major impact over the last year developing our political and communications strategies.

"Nick Wood has given outstanding and devoted service to two leaders of the party over the last five years.

"And Nick Longworth has played a leading role in improving our broadcasting operation. We wish all three of them the best for the future."

The announcement comes just two days after Dr Fox and Lord Saatchi were appointed as co-chairmen with a brief to overhaul the party machine.

And on Tuesday the party's governing board announced that they are looking to sell the lease on Central Office.

Party managers are now in the market for modern office accommodation in the Westminster area.

Tory sources have not ruled out a move into Millbank tower, the former office block once occupied by New Labour.