TWO Bury businessmen behind a successful double glazing repairs company have unlocked the potential of a major £50,000 expansion.

Stephen Tomlinson and Steven Cuddy have now opened their own locksmiths and glaziers shop in Bolton Road.

And some aspects of their new business dovetail neatly with their ongoing window repairs service.

The new shop is primarily geared towards the supply and fitting of security devices to domestic and commercial properties.

The business partners launched their thriving Double Glazing Repairs (DGR) company seven years ago.

And since then, the two former StormSeal workers have seen the business expand throughout the area.

Now they have decided to complement their existing business by launching their own shop.

As Steven Cuddy explained: "Really, it's just a progression on what we've been doing, although we'll still be carrying on the repairs business.

"Apart from dealing with the public and commercial clients, we'll also be working for various insurance companies.

"The idea of the shop is so we can offer a full service - from key cutting to replacement glass windows and doors.

"Now, we can incorporate all these aspects into the one business," he added.

The new shop will stock a comprehensive range of keys, locks and security devices.

"We think we do have a distinct advantage," Steven continued.

"If someone's uPVC window lock or mechanism is broken, then they've got to go to a uPVC distributor. They just can't walk into an ordinary locksmith's and buy the fittings.

"But we are stocking up with uPVC hardware to save people from having to do that. We want to offer a full service."

Both business partners have invested £50,000 in the new venture, with an additional £15,000 in stock.

And it's also something of a family affair for Steve. For his wife, Donna, is company secretary. Appointed shop manager is Michael Heywood.

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