A KEIGHLEY adhesives firm is strengthening its bonds with a caravan manufacturer.

Viking – which distributes tapes, adhesives and abrasives – is supplying a sealant to Coachman Caravans in Hull.

The 3M foam tape is being used to bond caravan roofs and window seams.

Viking technical specialist Craig Smith said: "It is proving a far more professional, quicker and cost-effective process."

He has worked on the initiative with 3M regional sales manager Glen Matthews and Coachman Caravans design manager Ian Kershaw.

Mr Kershaw said that in some cases the latest product would replace wet adhesives.

"With wet adhesive the main problem is the lengthy drying times involved which in some instances require parts to be clamped together for up to 72 hours," he added.

"We needed something that could help us get an instant 'grab'.

"This project has both enhanced and streamlined the manufacturing process."

Viking and 3M are now looking at further ways of developing their working relationship with Coachman Caravans and are trialling several other potential new product applications.

Viking managing director Colin Bennett said: "The caravan manufacturing sector is an emerging market for us and we feel there are major opportunities to develop our UK footprint in supplying specialist 3M products."