PLANT machine specialist MST has added a new division to help further its position as an industry leader in the bucket manufacturing field.

The company, based in Birtley, near Chester-le-Street has formed a dedicated bucket repair and reconditioning section, to help meet the increasing industry demand for the service.

MST has been working in the field for more than 35 years, but has established its new division to increase its response speed and servicing of stock.

The company, based on the town's Portobello Industrial Estate, has invested a six-figure sum in creating the division and making other improvements at the plant.

A six-strong team has been formed to work on the project, with product manager Mick Fenwick at the helm.

"Our experience tells us there are a great number of projects out there that need to update their equipment but, due to time restraints or budget, cannot afford to replace old with new," he said.

"In these situations, we have found buckets reconditioned or repaired offer a quick and cost-effective solution to worn, broken or malfunctioning excavation or clearing tools.

"We strongly believe that anything that reduces the threat of downtime and reduces the fear of surprise breakages or unplanned hold-ups is going to be welcomed by the industry."