AN engineering firm known for helping pinpoint distant galaxies has secured fresh leads to continue its expansion.

Altec Engineering Group says it has attracted new interest as it seeks to build on recent growth.

The company, based in Bowburn, near Durham City, previously took on Tanfield Lea’s Ronco Engineering and bought North Shields-based Quick Hydraulics out of administration.

However, bosses say its latest successes owe more to the Durham Oktoberfest business expo, where Altec was a major exhibitor.

According to officials, the company experienced high demand at the event, picking up leads and a list of contacts.

Hannah Steel, group marketing administrator, said the firm, which was founded in 1978 and employs 180 staff, cannot speak highly enough of Oktoberfest, which will next year mark its tenth anniversary.

She said: “We had several employees at Oktoberfest, who were inundated with enquiries from potential new clients.

“Our stand, the biggest one we’ve ever had, and the robot we had on it, attracted a fair bit of attention.

“We’ll definitely be attending again next year – it’s the perfect way to meet new clients and expand your business portfolio, which is what we’ve achieved.”

Ben Gilhespy, operations director at the County Durham Engineering and Manufacturing Network, which organises Durham Oktoberfest, said Altec’s successes were further proof of the expo’s ability to bring companies together.

He added: “Altec has been a supporter of Oktoberfest for a number of years, so I’m delighted to hear they’re pursuing a number of leads.”

Altec, which also includes Sigma Technologies Limited and Hydrofit, is known for designing and making special purpose equipment, with its reputation putting it part of the Challenger 2 battle tank and Boxer armoured vehicle supply chains.

However, it is also known for supplying components for telescopes and working on science projects, including schemes related to the European Space Agency, through its partnership with the Durham Centre for Advanced Instrumentation at Sedgefield’s NetPark.

Durham Oktoberfest, held at the Xcel Centre in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, last year attracted more than 100 firms and in excess of 700 visitors.

Organisers say plans are underway to make this year’s event, which will take place on Thursday, October 19, the most successful yet.