A Midlands business, whose products go into both mine disposal in Afghanistan and the undersea search for oil, has made a major expansion, more than tripling its workspace.

CD Engineering has moved from two locations in Redditch totalling 2,000sq ft to a 6,843sq ft factory and warehouse at the town's North Moons Moat industrial estate.

And the company has praised local commercial property agent John Truslove for smoothing the way.

CD Engineering is one of the UK's leading makers of hydraulic manifolds.

It is a first tier supplier to firms selling to the Ministry of Defence, the oil and gas sector, agriculture, JCB and Caterpillar.

Managing director Chris Williams said: "The mine disposal machines are used by armed forces around the world.

"You will find them in Afghanistan, with the US in particular.

"In terms of oil and gas our manifolds go into remotely operated vehicles for underwater exploration and maintenance.

"Hydraulics is a critical area, hence we supply across a number of different manufacturing sectors."

Mr Williams said the firm had decided to make its move because the lease was up on one of its former premises.

"We decided to expand and get a bigger place. The amount of work was getting too much for our old sites.

"We have moved more equipment in and we are aiming for steady growth. Stabilise, adjust fully to the move and then push the business forward. Last year we had a turnover of £800,000 and this year we hope to do £1 million.

"The working conditions are better, there is more space, it's a nicer factory and there is room to expand. Customers are impressed.

"And John Truslove got us a really good deal."

CD Engineering has been in the Williams family since 1985.

And it is very much a family operation still.

Mr Williams' wife Stella is part of the team while his father David is still doing three days a week at 86. Then there is brother Timothy, sister Elaine Warren and her husband Terry. And son Andrew is the third generation. There are two other employees and temporary staff are brought in as required.

"My father and I started the company with just £100. We thought 'let's have a crack and give it a go'. And we are still here."

It has battled three recessions - so what is the secret of survival?

"It can be tough getting through them - soul destroying at times. You simply have to work harder."

Mr Truslove said: "It is a great story - one of the West Midlands' many SME gems.

"It just shows how this region remains at the heart of the engineering world."

CD Engineering has taken a ten year lease on Unit 6, Thornhill Road at £24,000 a year rent.

For more information on John Truslove, view the website here: www.johntruslove.com