STAFF at conservatory specialists Ultraframe are celebrating the year with the news that sales in the UK are booming at the Clitheroe-based company.

Chairman Rod Sellers told shareholders at the Annual General Meeting in Clitheroe that the company was continuing to perform well in both UK and North American markets.

The news comes after a troubled year for the firm, which saw two profits warnings and a collapse in the company's share price.

The latest figures will be welcomed by Ultraframe's 600-strong Clitheroe workforce.

"Sales in the first three months of the current financial year are over 10 per cent ahead of last year in the UK," said Mr Sellers. "The Board remains confident of the prospects for our UK business, although we do not currently expect to see this growth rate continue for the full year.

"Our North American operations are performing in line with our expectations and we are confident that Four Seasons will prove to be an excellent acquisition for the Group."

Investors reacted well to the news and, within hours of the announcement, Ultraframe's share price had risen by 14 to £3.03, a rise of almost five per cent.

The firm received a second boost following an announcement about the appointment of a high-flying businesswoman to help further strengthen the Clitheroe team.

Vanda Murray, who was awarded an OBE for her services to industry and management in the New Year's Honours list, has been named a non-executive director of the company

Ms Murray is currently chief executive of Blick plc, a global provider of world-class security, communication and time-management solutions.

"I am delighted to welcome Vanda to our group," said Mr Sellers. "With a background in business-to-business sales and marketing and a first class record in successfully developing and expanding businesses, I am sure she will make an enormous contribution to Ultraframe as we develop both in the UK and overseas."