A FIRM in Chard has been bought by an engineering group based in Devon - securing the future of 70 jobs.

Expromet Technologies Group has acquired Metaltech Precision Ltd in Chard, a company founded in 1973.

Metaltech is a manufacturer of components for a wide range of industries such energy, scientific instruments, pump and valve, aerospace, defence, rail and marine.

“Joining Expromet will strengthen our position as a leading precision machining and fabrication supplier by giving us access to a wide range of resources, expertise and investment that will benefit the business and its customers," said Steve Hill, managing director of Metaltech.

"We look forward to working together.”

Expromet Technologies Group is a privately-owned precision engineering group, with a manufacturing base in Ilfracombe, Devon.

Alistair Schofield, CEO of Expromet, added: “We are delighted to welcome Metaltech to the group and to extend the portfolio of precision engineered solutions that we are able to provide to our diverse customer base.

"The acquisition of Metaltech is the next step in the development of Expromet and the business represents a strong fit with our existing casting and machining operations.”

“I would like to thank Steve Hill and the team at Metaltech for working with us, over what has been an incredibly challenging period, to make this transaction happen.

"I look forward to working with Steve and his colleagues in the future as we continue to develop the business within the group.”