A 136-YEAR-OLD window and door maker has unveiled expansion plans after buying new machinery.

H Jarvis, in Marske, near Redcar, has invested in equipment to bolster production at its plant, which could lead to new jobs.

The firm, which is based on Longbeck Trading Estate, makes more than 2,000 windows every week.

Employing more than 70 workers across its Marske factory and a site in Glasgow, bosses expect turnover to hit £6m this year.

To maintain that growth, they have now purchased a machine capable of making PVC windows quicker, which they say will increase production and boost its order book.

David Glendinning, H Jarvis' managing director, said the move, which has been backed by Barclays, was another milestone in its growth.

He said: “We have been craftsman-building and installing PVC windows since the mid-1990s and now produce more than 2,000 units every week.

“This new machine will enhance our rapid turnaround of orders and allow us to increase production and grow the business.

“The funding has allowed us to buy the machinery at a competitive price and provides us with flexibility in the coming years.”

Mike Wicks, Barclays' senior business banking manager, arranged the cash backing for H Jarvis and said he was delighted to see its continued success.

He added: “The firm is long-standing customer that we’ve supported for more than 50 years.

“It’s great to see local businesses taking advantage of low interest rates and investing for the future.

“This will undoubtedly lead to an increase in employment, which is great news for the North-East.”

Last year, H Jarvis played a key role in a university study, which showed how using certain construction components can reduce home energy usage.

The business was enlisted by Glassolutions to work on Nottingham University's research into housing design and energy use.

Using specially-designed sealed units with triple-glazed windows, the company proved how energy efficient housing designs can deliver savings of up to 72 per cent.