Lakesmere Group Ltd — a building contractor based in Winchester — has opened a new ‘state of the art’ production facility after deciding to manufacture a range of roofing and cladding products, as well as gutters and panels. The £1.5 million centre is expected to result in an extra 20 jobs.

The company is now recruiting production operatives, sheet-metal workers and apprentices.

CEO Mark Davey said: “Our move into manufacturing is just the start of what promises to be a very exciting period of growth, and we are delighted to have been able to open our first dedicated production facility here in Winchester. Lakesmere is proud to keep its local roots while expanding and to be in a position to contribute to the Hampshire economy and community.”