AN Ulverston electronics firm has celebrated its 60th year in operation.

Acrastyle, electrical engineers and manufacturers of protection and control solutions, has marked its 60th birthday in Ulverston.

Acrastyle has undergone many changes in its lifespan but still operates from the same Ulverston canal side site it did in 1962.

From fabricating fluorescent lights in the early days to manufacturing IEC 61850 panels today, the firm strives to be ahead of emerging technologies.

Stephen Smith, general manager at Acrastyle, said: “We are incredibly proud of our achievements to this day, and of the history of the company.

“More than anything, we believe that a company is nothing but its people, and we’d like to take the opportunity to thank everyone who has made such huge progress possible.

“The company continues to evolve and goes from strength to strength.

“From our historic factory in Ulverston, Acrastyle continues to provide high-quality electrical protection and control solutions for a huge range of clients and industries.

“Our sixty years encompass a time of huge change both in the world and in our sector, but our commitment to our work remains the same. We are proud of our past, while being focused and ready for the future.”.

Gareth Boyd, systems and supply chain manager at Acrastyle said: “According to the changing needs of our industry, our approaches have also moved on.

“In the early stages sheet metal would be ordered, cut up on a guillotine, punched, pressed, welded or riveted into shape, then each component would be custom-made.

“Drawings were made, copied and delivered by hand, and a full-time employee was needed in the print room to keep on top of all the orders. An order could take six months to complete, and this was definitely considered good going for the day!

“These days, metal parts are designed using computers and delivered ready-made by our suppliers to exacting specifications. In many ways, our work is made much easier by the application of technology, but the expertise and care needed remain every bit as exacting.”

Mr Smith added: “Our sector faces many challenges, and we are committed to being at the forefront of solutions to them.

“From reducing waste and emissions, to expanding trade with other nations, to continuing to innovate with safer and more efficient solutions. We are proud to look back on our 60 years of British engineering heritage, and face the future knowing that with the right knowledge and attitude, you can do anything. Here’s to the next sixty years!”