A BLACKBURN firm is a cut above the rest after unveiling a new £150,000 machine.

The Partwell Group is the first in its industry to install a twin head water jet cutter, which will cut sheet materials rapidly to produce precision finished parts. The firm manufactures plastic parts and components for industries from press cutting, die making, plastics and food.

Mike Damms, chief executive of East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, unveiled the new machine at Bridge Works, Stanley Street, Blackburn.

He said it was companies like Partwell, who kept building on their experience and raising their standards, who were the unsung heroes of the UK’s economy.