A West Midlands company has played its part in the construction of a major new supermarket in Walsall. Wednesfield-based Edward Howell, part of Wedge Group Galvanizing, has galvanized just over 50 tonnes of steel used by engineers D Norton Fabrication to create 14 fire escapes and balustrades at the new £55 million Tesco Express store in Walsall.

The fire escapes are located around the site of the two-floor, 117,000 sq ft supermarket, which has been built on the location of the former Walsall College on St Paul's Street, creating 230 in the process.

Jim Lindsay, Sales Manager for Edward Howell, said: "We're delighted to have played a part in this exciting project. Having easily accessible, well-constructed fire escapes is absolutely crucial to ensure the safety of shoppers and staff, and the galvanizing process will make sure that they stay in prime condition for years to come."

Eddie Norton, Assistant Managing Director for Birmingham-based D Norton Fabrication, commented: "It's been great to work on such a prestigious initiative. Edward Howell provided us with a first-class, prompt, and professional service to ensure our job was completed on schedule."

Wedge Group Galvanizing is one of the largest hot dip galvanizing organisations in the UK with a history dating back over 150 years. With 14 plants strategically placed across the country, they offer a truly national galvanizing service.