A flourishing Keighley engineering company has upgraded its computer system and created new jobs.

Acetarc Engineering has invested £25,000 in new IT to boost efficiency and produce clearer project timings and costings.

As a result, the Dalton Lane firm, which manufactures foundry equipment, has expanded its production department and taken on four more workers in response to new contracts.

The company – which in recent years has relocated to bigger premises and seen its turnover double – was supported in its latest venture by the Rising Stars scheme, part of Bradford Council’s enterprise programme.

As part of the initiative, business advisors provide free help. And through backing from Rising Stars and the council’s Capital Investment Fund, Acetarc was awarded a £4,000 grant towards the new computer system.

Company director, Peter Burrell, said: “Our Rising Stars advisor helped us focus on the investment needed, and along with support from the council, spurred us on to improve our production management systems.

“I would strongly recommend other local businesses enquire about Rising Stars to see how they could benefit.

“We are now able to deliver the highest-quality engineered products, and have the confidence to explore new markets and identify opportunities for all our clients’ needs.”

Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, the council’s executive member for employment and skills, echoed his call for other businesses to use Rising Stars’ services.

She said: “People usually think business support is all about start-ups, but often many of the larger, well-established companies also need guidance.

“It’s reassuring to see companies that have been around for many years, such as Acetarc Engineering, are benefiting from the programme as well.”

Rising Stars business services manager, Carolyn Coleman, said: “We offer all levels of support, whether it’s helping firms pull together a thorough business plan to identify areas of weakness, or providing guidance on filling in the required application forms.”

Visit rising-stars.biz for scheme details.