ONE Forest business that is well and truly bucking the economic trend is KW Bell Group of Cinderford.

The company has not only doubled in size in three years, but founder and owner Keith Bell is so optimistic about the future hat he has ploughed an extra £1m into buying new plant.

“Group turnover will reach £50 million this year, with the contracting business growing to £36 million, from a pre recession peak of £20 million,” he said.

“That’s not bad growth statistics from from a family business in an industry with huge skills shortages.

“Further growth is now under way with our house building arm, Bell Homes, taking advantage of a buoyant housing market.

“Staff numbers are around 400 and apprenticeships both on and off site are in place alongside a continuous health and safety training programme.”

Keith’s son Peter Bell added: “We have a fantastic team here with a great work ethic and customer focus. They have embraced the challenge of growth and taken it head on.

“We have walked away from millions of pounds worth of work, concentrating on looking after loyal customers and growing at a sustainable rate.

"The staff and the wider community we support benefit from this success.”

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