A CONSTRUCTION company set up by five brothers has celebrated its 40th anniversary.

Conlon Construction Ltd, Charnley Fold Lane, Bamber Bridge, was started by brothers Michael, John, Pat, Vincent and Malachy Conlon to deliver stone for Britain's first stretch of motorway -- the M6 from junction 29 to 32.

But over the years the brothers concentrated on construction and property development after motorway haulage work dried up.

And since November 24, 1961, the company has laid enough facing bricks to stretch twice the length of the Great Wall of China and completed 800 projects to a present day value of £450m.

These days, despite the brothers no longer being involved in the firm, there is still a Conlon connection with half of the six directors being family members.

And today the company employs 75 people -- many with three decades of dedicated service. Theresa Noblett, the company's chairman, said Conlon Construction has been involved in a number of exciting projects, including the renovation of the Corn Exchange, now the Flax and Firkin pub, the redevelopment of the old 'Catholic College' in Winckley Square to offices now occupied by Legal and Trade Financial Services Ltd, Norwich Union and Taylor Patterson Associates. It also built the nurses' residences at the Royal Preston Hospital, All Hallows School in Penwortham and Lancashire Constabulary's communications centre at Hutton.

"Life begins at 40 is our motto on this occasion and it heralds a timely facelift for the company," she said.

"It is fitting to celebrate the past, but just as important to look to the future and we recognise the need for continuous improvement in all aspects of our business.

"We are looking forward to our next 40 years and to continuing to forge strong working relationships with new and existing clients, industry professionals and sub-contractors, all of whom are vital to our business success."