A £500,000 investment has launched an engineering firm into a new market - and the sky's the limit!

Raven Manufacturing has invested in tooling for a new range of satellite dishes aimed at the European market in a move which could create up to 30 new jobs at the Altham firm.

The company, which recently changed its name From Raven Engineering (Pressings) was launched in 1984 and has grown to a £6 million turnover venture employing 70 people.

It specialises in presswork, welding, powder coating and assembly work for the automotive and electronic industries.

It had been involved in manufacturing satellite dishes on behalf on another company for around nine years but recently decided to set up in its own right.

Three new dishes have been designed and production was due to start rolling at the factory this week.

"Initially we're looking to produce around 350,000 dishes this year but expect that to double next year," said John Ross, who has been recruited as director of the new satellite division.

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