A CLASSIC car specialist which makes replacement body panels for a range of models is expanding.

Ex-Pressed Steel Panels last year moved into a former manufacturing unit in Keighley to accommodate its panel finishing, storage and logistics operations.

And the company is seeking to recruit additional skilled workers to join its team.

The business has a unique press process which enables it to produce panels from its own moulds – to serve the needs of classic car enthusiasts, clubs and businesses that would otherwise struggle to find parts.

Last year's move to the Pitt Street premises was in response to growing demand from customers not only in this country and Europe, but across the globe – including the United States, Australia and New Zealand.

The process to produce the made-to-measure parts begins at a workshop in Cowling, and is completed at the firm's Keighley base.

Fourteen people are currently employed across the two sites.

The panels end up fitted to scores of different cars – from classic Fords such as the Capri, Escort and Cortina, to Peugeots, Jaguars, Lancia, Triumphs and the Hillman.

Also, the company is keen to meet the needs of a growing market of ‘young timers’ who own emerging classics such as the Ford Sierra Cosworth, Subaru Impreza, Jaguar XK and BMW models.

Ex-Pressed managing director, Mike McColgan, said: "These are exciting times for the business.

"We are proud to be producing the very best in replica panels for car restoration enthusiasts, whether it’s for the owner of a 50-year-old Mini or to fit on an up-and-coming classic such as the Honda S2000.

"We want to ensure that whatever your car, we’re here to help you keep it in ‘tip top’ shape and make quality memories.

"Expanding into Keighley has given us the space and opportunity to really grow and keep giving our customers the best service possible.

"Also, we are always on the look out for skilled workers who want to be part of the Ex-Pressed team and build a career in the automotive business."

He added that customer feedback via social media reflected the team's work.

One person said they'd bought a number of panels from the firm for a complete rebuild of a Morris 1100, and that they were "perfect".

A customer from New Zealand who ordered Cortina panels described them as "fantastic".

For more about the company, visit steelpanels.co.uk or call 01535 632721.