A FABRICATION and engineering firm secured a large contract to work on a renowned training base.

D&S Services, and sister firm D&S Construction Services, won a deal to make and install a helideck for Serco’s International Fire Training Centre (IFTC).

The 196sq metre structure will be used at Serco’s Durham Tees Valley Airport site.

D&S Services, in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, employs 19 full-time workers, while its construction division employs five staff, with four on-site and one in an office role.

Paul Hutchinson, D&S Construction’s project manager, said: “We are really excited about the helideck, as it demonstrates our ability to erect complex structures.

“This is just one of the many projects we have been working on and it’s something not many people can say they have installed.”

Gary Watson, IFTC business operations manager, added: “The helideck needed to meet tight specification for regulatory requirements.

“It’s great to work with a local specialist that has the expertise and commitment to deliver this kind of service.”

The IFTC has trained thousands of people, including staff from German and Polish airports.