A FAMILY engineering firm has been given a grant to buy new equipment and create three new jobs, including an apprenticeship.

Broadoak Gear Cutting Engineering Ltd, which was set up in October 2010, produces a range of specialist gear components for a variety of industries nationally. The company, based in Whitehall Street, was operating with some old machinery and wanted to buy a new CNC lathe to help its productivity, and precision. And, after applying for a Fuse Fund grant, a capital grant scheme to help new businesses finance growth projects, it was awarded £13,325.

Fuse is delivered by Regenerate Pennine Lancashire in partnership with Lancashire Business View, and is supported by the Regional Growth Fund. Director and business manager Paul Thornber said: “This grant will enable us to buy the equipment we need and create an additional three jobs, including taking on a new apprentice engineer.”