THERE has been a major boost for the job market in Okehampton where pet food manufacturer Forthglade has announced 25 new permanent jobs.

The announcement is ahead of the Winkleigh-based company’s move to Okehampton East Business Park, where new £8-million premises are currently being built.

The company, which manufactures natural pet food, is launching a recruitment drive for roles with technical/quality, engineering and production as well as supervisory roles.

The current 80-strong workforce will be moving from Winkleigh, where they have been based since 1971, to the new purpose built factory which is set to increase production of the natural Devon-made pet food by 50%.

Joint managing director of Forthglade Chris Brooking said he hoped that a number of local recruitment events would help attract potential candidates.

‘The company is Devon through and through and it was always our intention to keep the factory here,’ he said. ‘The new factory at Okehampton is really starting to take shape now but before we move we need to substantially increase our team.

‘It is wonderful to be in a position to increase local employment and we encourage those interested in working with us to get in touch. Details of roles available can be gained from contacting [email protected].

‘We’re looking for permanent employees to be based with us at Winkleigh during 2017 and then join us at Okehampton next spring. We’re all incredibly excited about the future of Forthglade and look forward to growing the team.’

Cllr Stuart Barker, Devon County Council Cabinet member for economy and skills, said the development was very good news for the town.

‘It’s encouraging to see great plans for the business park coming to fruition and to have a local business like Forthglade generating local jobs in the Okehampton area,’ he said. ‘There’s a huge potential for growth in this part of the town and with two further plots up for sale at the business park I am sure other businesses will want to emulate Forthglade’s success.’

Okehampton county councillor Kevin Ball added: ‘This is great news because obviously new opportunities for local people are always welcome and we look forward to welcoming Forthglade in the community.’

The natural pet food sector has grown considerably over the last five years and with over 40% of UK households now owning pets, Forthglade looks set for a busy time ahead selling across the UK via independent pet stores, a number of leading supermarkets and through its own website.

Its relocation has been part-funded by a £200,000 grant from the South West Growth Fund — an £8.5-million programme which aims to stimulate capital investment to create new jobs in Devon and other counties in the South West.

The Okehampton East Business Park is being funded with £2-million from Devon County Council, east of the town.

The hope is that it will encourage more employment in the town, which made headline news across the country back in 2011 when 300 jobs were lost practically overnight. Frozen desserts firm Polestar shed 232 jobs and Robert Wiseman Dairies laid off 69 people, devastating the town’s economy.