AN engineering firm, which left its farm roots behind to secure more work, has seen its order book swell after strengthening its credentials.

CJ Tennant Engineering, based at Gallowfields Trading Estate, in Richmond, North Yorkshire, is known for making wrought iron fencing, pig fencing and feeders, and making repairs to farm machinery.

However, it has now secured new structural steel certification, which director Carl Tennant says has already yielded extra work.

The accreditation has brought a £150,000 contract with Acomb Construction, also in Richmond.

Mr Tennant also said its switch has allowed the firm to increase its workforce to seven, with plans in place to bring in another member of staff.

The former New Holland engineer said: “Coming to Richmond has really paid off, and, with us now having the steel certifications, we are getting a lot of work.

“It’s allowing us to bid for bigger and better things.

"We won the £150,000 structural steel contract due to us obtaining our steel certification, which cost us £10,000 to get through."

Previously based at Browson Bank Farm, in Dalton, the business set up a workshop in Richmond last year, which is accompanied by a shop that includes products such as lubricants, nuts, bolts and fixings.

Mr Tennant added: “We are now looking to expand the shop range for the agricultural, construction and domestic markets.

"The reaction we’ve had from people has been fantastic.”