Batley-based Angloco (www.Angloco.co.uk), which designs and manufactures fire-fighting and rescue vehicles, is preparing to launch the largest recruitment drive in its 54-year history.

The company has already doubled its production levels in the last 18 months and nearly doubled its turnover, which is expected to reach £25 million in 2020.

With demand showing no signs of slowing down, Angloco needs to add another 12 people to its 90-strong workforce by the end of this year.

A key trigger for the sharp growth was winning a number of long-term multi-vehicle contracts — for example from Essex Country Fire and Rescue back in 2014.

Until that point, Angloco had concentrated on specialist or one-off vehicles for the UK and export market, but after the first ‘long run’ of water-tender appliances for Essex, it went on to manufacture 59 units over the last four years.

Managing director Alistair Brown said: “We’re lucky to have a loyal and talented workforce — 39 people have been with the company for more than 10 years — but we need to significantly boost the team.

"We’re therefore currently looking for skilled individuals to join our design, production and service departments; we will also consider untrained but bright people who are ready to learn.

“There’s an immense amount of pride associated with building a fire engine. For many of our team, these vehicles are works of art; to know that after leaving our Batley facility, they will go on to save lives around the world is incredibly fulfilling.”