BRADFORD firms have backed a survey which says manufacturing is set for an end of year high in Yorkshire and Humber, a survey has found.

Output, orders and recruitment intentions are higher in this region than any other area outside London and the South East.

According to the Q4 Manufacturing Outlook survey by EEF, the manufacturers’ organisation, and accountancy and business advisory firm BDO LLP, Yorkshire and Humber manufacturers have surpassed output and order forecasts in the fourth quarter.

Around 40 per cent of companies saw an increase in output, compared to the 24 per cent predicted three months ago.

Order books were better than expected, with a balance of 26 per cent seeing an increase during the last three months.

The survey shows recruitment is at its highest level since the recession began, with a net 50 per cent of Yorkshire firms boosting their employment levels in the last three months.

UK-wide, the sector has performed well and is on track to achieve 3.5 per cent growth this year, with a forecast of two per cent growth in 2015.

Bradford manufacturing firms back the findings of the survey.

Akeroyd & Topham Ltd, based in York Street, currently supply warehouse equipment to firms including Next and Freeman Grattan Holdings.

Ulrike Whitaker, company director, says things have improved over the last couple of months.

She said: “Our order books have definitely picked up.

“Things are already looking good for the start of next year too.”

Impressions Engraving and Etching, based in Shay Lane, Wilsden, manufacture signs, engraved plaques and labels in stainless steel, polished brass, bronze and plastic.

Jason Hardy, firm director, said: “There has been an increase in manufacturing recently.

“It’s too early to tell about the fourth quarter for us yet though.”

Jason Whitworth, head of manufacturing at BDO in Yorkshire, said: “Working against the headwinds of poor export markets, the strength and resilience of sector firms have shone through in 2014.”