CROSS Hills-based chemical specialist Airedale Group has strengthened its team.

Three new appointments have been made, taking the total workforce to over 125.

Louise Copeman, who has more than 20 years' experience in health and safety within the chemical industry, has become deputy head of regulatory.

"I will be focussing on fostering a culture of safety to keep staff and visitors well," she says.

Jacquie Hodgson has joined the group as human resources manager.

She has worked in human resources for over 25 years, latterly at the former Craven District Council.

"The health and wellbeing of staff is one of my main priorities as I settle into the role," she says. "There'll also be plenty of work to do when incorporating new staff from business acquisitions and organic growth."

And Harrison Firth has been appointed marketing executive. He joins with an apprenticeship in digital marketing, which will be used to develop the company’s online presence.

He says: "This is a fantastic start to my career."