Cowes-based marine-safety company Seasafe opened its new factory yesterday on the Isle of Wight. The move to a larger factory on the outskirts of town coincides with the company’s 40th anniversary. When unveiling the plaque, the island’s MP Andrew Turner said the factory was a credit to the island.

‘It’s good for the economy of Cowes and the island to have a business that is delivering something in competition with the rest of the world and being successful,’ he said.

Mainland and island-based businesses attended the opening and were given a tour of the new factory. On display was the new Hypo Hoist MOB recovery device – designed by Young Engineer award winner Tanya Budd, who was just 17 when Seasafe snapped her up – and the Thermaflect gilet and undersuit featured in PBO 479.

Photo: MP Andrew Turner (left) with MD Jeremy Dale