A NEW venture by Forest firm Grail Engineering is "combining highly-skilled employment with technology at the cutting edge of human achievement," said Baroness Royall of Blaisdon.

Baroness Royall officially opened the new company, Grail Laser, at its base in Cinderford.

Two new skilled jobs and two apprenticeships have been created by the new company and it has also given extra security to 26 jobs on the engineering side which has been in operation for 47 years.

It is hoped within three years Grail Laser will be operating around the clock and employing 20 or more people said Mr Julian Grail.

He added: "Grail Laser brings a new hi tech business to Gloucestershire that will support the sustainability of manufacturing and creative industries in the county and will support a range of other local businesses."

The state-of-the-art technology will make elaborate metal profiles and offer a service to local companies who have had to go to Yorkshire or Bristol.

The total investment is £500,000 including £75,000 from the Forest of Dean Local Action Group which is responsible for funds from the Rural Development Programme for England.

Baroness Royall said: "By combining highly skilled employment with technology at the cutting-edge of human achievement, Grail Engineering is leading the way.

"Major capital investments like this are integral to ensuring that the UK continues to develop its high skill base and lead the world in manufacturing.

"Grail Engineering has been established in Cinderford for 47 years and has already garnered a reputation for high quality manufacturing and providing long term employment for local people.

"With this further investment, it is clear that this reputation is here to stay. It is phenomenal to see local businesses and local communities united together, to ensure the best possible outcomes for each other.

"This state of the art venture will not just provide employment to local people, but benefit the wider community as a whole."