A Cumbrian engineering firm has made five new appointments since the beginning of the year and plans to make more as it continues to pick up new contracts across the country.
LEL, based in Lillyhall Workington, now has 22 employees after starting with just two five years ago, including managing director Nick Robinson.
Originally known as Lifttech Engineering, the mechanical nuclear and industrial engineering company began life focused on lifting equipment inspections and repairs but has since expanded its capabilities to cover everything from mechanical and electrical installations, strip out, commissioning and engineering support.
Nick says that demand for its services is booming as its good reputation continues to grow. While much of its work takes place at the Sellafield site, the firm also has previous and current projects at BAE Systems in Barrow, as well as other locations across the UK.
“Our reputation is spreading via word of mouth mainly,” says Nick.
“We have always prided ourselves on getting things right first time, if a problem does arise, we will put all of our efforts into overcoming it as efficiently and effectively as possible. People like working with us because we are open, honest, and transparent.
“You need to help the clients and do whatever you can to work with them and overcome issues. We want to get the job done. If there’s a problem, then we try and overcome it for them; We don’t sit back and wait for other people to give us the answers.
“All of our team are really committed. They know the job inside out and they deal with our customers on a daily basis. The feedback we’ve received is fantastic.”
LEL plays an active part in the local community, including as the main sponsor for Whitehaven RLFC, which changed its ground’s name to the LEL Arena last year. It also sponsors Whitehaven’s under-15 football team, Kells Amateur Rugby League. LEL also work closely with homeless hostel Calderwood House, in Egremont.
Nick, who was born in Whitehaven, says providing high quality jobs for local people – including three young apprentices – is just as vital to LEL as supporting local community organisations.
“There is so much talent out there in West Cumbria and we want to make sure we can keep on growing and providing the jobs to give those people the opportunity to thrive,” he says.
“It’s really important that we, as local employers, make sure we’re not only playing a part in the economy, but making the area a great place to live as well.”
