GRAHAM and Brown is lending its wall coverings experience to a Bury paint manufacturer to strengthen its position in the decorations market.

Athol Paints is investing £40,000 on a new shop, to open on site at its existing factory in Wellington Street, Bury. More than half that amount will be devoted to wallcoverings.

Athol Paints is a family business, set up by local man Geoff Halstead in 1976. The company also has a shop in the Farnworth area.

Originally selling paint to decorators, merchants and retail shops, not only in the area but also in Yorkshire and Wales, Geoff now sees a gap in the market to expand the business.

"There has been a definite wall coverings revival in 1999 and we want to be able to respond to our customers' needs," said Geoff.

"With so many styles and colours available in wallpaper, the consumer has more choice than before.

"And we are delighted we have the backing of a market leader in the wall coverings industry, such as Graham and Brown."

Sales account manager for Graham and Brown, Colin Brakewell, added: "This is great news for Athol Paints.

"We are committed not only to the consumer, but also to its customers."

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