Glassfibre manufacturer Lamplas, in Durham, has appointed MICHAEL GALLAGHER as business development manager.

The 41-year-old, from Chester-le-Street, spent the first 13 years of his career with Lamplas and, since 1994, has gained sales experience in several industries.

"We targeted Michael specifically for this position," said Lamplas operations director Keith Siddle. "He has the unique combination of valuable experience in composites, knowledge of our business and a breadth of sales experience with small-to-major blue-chip companies.

"This has given him the skills and ability we are looking for to develop the business further outside our traditional leisure markets and move it on to the next stage in its development."

Lamplas operates two sites in Derwentside and employs 100 people. The company supplies the leisure market, including leading caravan and motor home manufacturers.