OSWALDTWISTLE-based printer Ward Knowles is investing more than £1 million in a new state-of-the-art press.

The company, which specialises in business forms, will be installing the German-made automation web offsite press early next year.

The new equipment will be capable of printing up to eight colours in a single pass and has the capacity to print 200,000 A4 sheets per hour.

Sales director Tony Scott said the purchase was part of a continuing investment programme introduced following the management buy out of the business in January 2000 from the Ward Knowles family.

"We believe Ward Knowles has a bright future in business forms," he said. "The Board of Directors feel it is important we continue to grow within our area of strength.

"The only way we will do this is to continuously improve in two key areas - service and productivity. This press will not only improve our existing productivity, but also enable us to manufacture new products."

Managing director Glenn Smith added: "We inherited a very healthy business from the Ward Knowles family which we have been successful in growing. We see it as vital to invest further in the business for an even stronger future."