A Cumbrian engineering firm is set to double the size of its team.

Forth Engineering, which opened the new arm of the business, Forth Fabrications, in Barrow in 2023, has experienced a surge in customer inquiries.

With existing projects at full capacity, operations manager Carl Hallows is looking to recruit additional staff to ensure future contracts can be fulfilled.

Mr Hallows said: "The fabrication unit has taken off spectacularly since it was launched last year – the team is just about keeping up with demand.

"But with no anticipated slowdown in the requirements of our existing clients, and new businesses wanting to commission work, we need to expand.

“That means more well-paid, highly skilled jobs for the local area and economy which is fantastic – and it of course means as a business, we can continue to operate as a vibrant contributor to the engineering sector in Barrow.”

Over the past 12 months, Forth has increased its turnover by 50 per cent, boosted profits, and grown the total workforce by 20 per cent.

The company has invested significantly in new premises, including a third site at Cleator Moor's Leconfield estate.

Forth Fabrications was established last year in Barrow to support BAE Systems' submarine division and other industries across the region.

The facility created five new jobs and helped the company deliver end-to-end solutions to a diverse range of clients.

The existing Barrow team of eight is expected to double to 16 in the coming months, with an initial focus on the roles of project manager, design engineer, and commissioning engineer.

Mark Telford, managing director of Forth, said: "As a solutions-led engineering business, we are uniquely placed to support our industry colleagues through the provision of expertly fabricated components - and our Barrow team play a key role in the delivery of this.

“Investing in more people, skills and expertise is absolutely the right thing to do as this part of the business expands and enjoys success.”

The business will soon start its recruitment drive.