A COMPANY which survived a devastating fire a decade ago is celebrating a milestone.

Airedale Springs, whose production facility was wiped out by the blaze, is marking its 75th year in business.

Chairman Tim Parkinson says the fire – at its old Ebor Mills, Haworth, premises in 2010 – was undoubtedly the biggest challenge the spring manufacturer had ever faced.

But he feels the experience, whilst horrific at the time, has made the firm stronger – and more able to cope with the demands posed in recent months by the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Following the fire, fellow businesses and the wider community rallied round to support the company which as a result was able to reopen just days later.

“There’s no doubt in my mind that the tragic events of 2010 were the most challenging we have seen throughout the history of Airedale Springs,” said Mr Parkinson.

“Whilst a truly awful experience at the time, we were able to learn from it and it has given us the experience to deal with the current crisis more effectively.”

Family-run Airedale Springs was founded by Tim’s grandfather, Gordon Parkinson. Originally employing three people, it manufactured wire handles for industrial accumulators.

Over the years the firm has continued to grow and won many industry awards.

Half its current workforce are members of the company’s 25 Year Club, having clocked-up a quarter of a century of continuous service. Since the firm was founded, 53 employees have been inducted into the club.

Tim said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating such a big anniversary this year and it’s a testament to the hard work that each and every employee – past and present – has put in throughout the last 75 years.

“Over the years, we have focused on diversifying our production capabilities and ensured we are not reliant on a small number of markets. By combining our proven track record of problem solving and offering insightful advice to our customers, we have enjoyed many years of success with a number of long-standing clients.”

For the past eight years, Airedale Springs has operated from a purpose-built, environmentally-friendly factory – The Spring Works, in Haworth – which is home to 17 of the most advanced CNC coiling machines currently available.