A BURY-based traded group is certainly on the right lines for success.

The Road Safety Markings Association (RSMA), which represents the interests of the country's road marking industry, is celebrating another successful year that re-inforces its position as the biggest trade group in the highways sector.

RSMA, whose managing director is George Lee, has seen turnover rise by more than 20 per cent in the last year and is now confirmed as larger than all other highways sectoral trade associations put together.

Mr Lee, an ex-political adviser who was constituency agent for former Bury North MP Alistair Burt from 1989-91, is enjoying life in the fast lane after taking up his role with the RSMA six years ago.

He said: "We opened our offices in Bury in 1998, having relocated from the south east, and since then we have seen continuous growth, both in membership and sales, putting us in a commanding position in our sector, with more than 90 per cent of all road markings applied in the UK being laid by RSMA members."

By the end of the current year, the association expects its turnover to have trebled in the time it has been in Bury. This is primarily due to a fundamental review of its activities, the introduction of a range of additional services for members and the local recruitment of a professional team to develop and implement the new services.

Mr Lee explained: "Following a review of services, we mapped out a five-year rolling business plan that scheduled the introduction of new services to members that would add value to RSMA membership, help companies to grow their efficiency and professionalism and enhance the skills of their workforce."

RSMA, based at Bury Business Centre in Kay Street, with a four-strong staff, derives its income mainly from membership subscriptions and through the commercial services it offers. The trade body harnesses its national buying power to secure below-market rates for its members.

Looking to the future, Mr Lee concluded: "Road marking is an inherently dangerous activity, mainly taking place in the middle of the road. The thrust of the association's activities in the coming few years will be the further enhancement of health and safety, industry-wide."