Cumbria's Forth has appointed a new operations manager in a time of growth.

Carl Hallows has joined the senior management team at the engineering solutions firm to lead work at the Barrow fabrications facility.

Mr Hallows has a wealth of experience in manufacturing, renewable energy and subsea electrification, with a career spanning 30 years.

He will now be part of the management team at Forth, which has seen a 50 per cent increase in turnover and a 20 per cent increase in workforce over the last year.

The company has also invested in new premises, opening a third site at Cleator Moor's Leconfield estate and an in-house fabrication unit in Barrow.

Mr Hallows said: "Building and managing successful teams has been one of my most satisfying roles and for me it’s all about people.

"Forth was founded on strong values around investing in people, respecting each other and being the best we can be.

"These values were a key factor in my decision to apply for this position.

“Forth operates across many industrial sectors and manages several important future concept projects, which I am excited to be working on with the support of a terrific team.”

The additional premises has enabled Forth to increase capacity and take on new contracts.

Forth's managing director, Mark Telford, said: “The advantage of having this fabrication capability in-house is that we have total control over quality, turnaround time, and are able to ensure every process meets the same high standards which have helped Forth establish its reputation as a premier SME across Cumbria.

"I am delighted to welcome Carl to the team, he will be a fantastic addition to our Barrow operation.

"He has a proven record in leading and managing teams and delivering excellent results.

"His appointment is testament to our ambition and vision for the future as we continue to grow and take on major projects for clients and partners across the region and beyond.”

Mr Hallows' appointment coincides with the internal promotion of two team members from Forth's Barrow sites.

Rob Laurie has been appointed as quality, safety and environmental manager, while Neil Armistead is promoted to workshop manager.

Mr Telford said: "These appointments significantly strengthen our Barrow management team and reflect Forth’s commitment to the town.

"Their expertise and shared passion for people, place and local communities is a huge asset to our Barrow operations and I am very proud to see them progress."

Having been born and raised in Furness, Mr Hallows is passionate about the area’s industrial history and lives with his family in Dalton.

He said: "I know the area well.

"It’s a great place to live, work and raise a family.

“Furness has a proud history of engineering excellence.

"The supply of world-class, locally produced products to global clients is vital to our local economy.

“It’s great to see how buoyant our area is in terms of employment opportunities for local people and I am extremely proud to join the Forth team."