A SPECIALIST in heavy moving equipment has "shifted" its UK distribution depot from the Midlands to East Lancashire.

Thomas Equipment, which markets Thomas loaders, has opened a new warehouse in Burnley Road, Rossendale, creating a handful of new jobs.

One of the main reasons for the move from Tamworth was to be nearer to the M61/M62/M65 motorway network.

Another was the appointment of Tony Cotton as district manager. Mr Cotton has extensive experience in the business, having operated his own firm for more than 20 years, latterly as Tony Cotton (Plant Sales), of Haslingden.

Thomas Equipment, part of the Canadian McCain frozen foods group, offers six models of equipment known as skid steer loaders, small wheeled vehicles usually with a bulldozer-type blade on the front.

Nick Giannoccaro has been appointed director of its European operations.