A LEADING engineering company may be on the move after floods again interrupted production.

On Wednesday morning employees at PF&F Limited in Bag Lane, Atherton -- the country's biggest manufacturer of laboratory fume cupboards -- had the unpleasant task of wading through one metre deep sewage to try to stem the flood.

Heavy rain sent floodwater sweeping through the former Prestwich Parker works affecting a major project schedule.

And company spokesman Tony Cole told The Journal :"It wasn't just water -- it was a very 'pooey' smell.

"We had to splash disinfectant everywhere to try to get rid of it. Our directors feel particularly aggrieved because a similar flood occurred a fortnight before.

"The authority was made aware of this but nothing appears to have been done. The water rose a metre high inside the building and the weight of it bent roller shutter doors.

"On Wednesday 12 or 13 men spent all morning trying to stem the flow and clear the mess. We are racing against the clock to complete seven prototypes as we start the second phase of a major project.

"Those employees were heroes, we bought them all replacement shoes and socks and gave them a bonus. But they shouldn't have to do this.

"I understand Council workmen will be digging up the road next week to try to solve the problem. But a move to another location could be on the cards for us."

A Council spokesman said: "The drains were unable to cope with intensive rainstorms.

"We will carry out improvement work to prevent a recurrence."