A FIRM is to increase its workforce as it relocates from Otley to Baildon after agreeing a £610,000 financing package.

Canvasman, which manufactures bespoke boat covers and outdoor canopies, will move to new headquarters in Sapper Jordan Rossi Park, off Otley Road, which are about three times the size of its current premises.

Work started on the fit out of the new 8,800 sq ft site earlier this month and it will increase by a further 1,800 sq ft once a mezzanine is built in early September.

The company plans to increase its workforce from 20 to 50 within the next three years.

Managing director Chris Salisbury said: “The relocation marks an exciting growth opportunity for the company.

“It is exciting for us to move but it has been a long road to do it. We have outgrown our premises in Otley.

“We are now able to bring new members into our team and offer our services to more customers. We’re dedicated to our craft and we are looking forward to what the future brings.”

The company started in 1996 in Mr Salisbury’s basement at his home in Leeds.

The business has since grown from a one-man operation to a dedicated team of designers, cutters, sewers and fitters.

It creates bespoke boat and vehicle covers as well as shop canopies for a variety of clients.

The company also offers a full refit and upholstery service, and designs and manufactures shade sails.

It continues to grow, with a turnover of approximately £1 million a year.

Canvasman was able to expand and relocate following a funding package agreed with NatWest, the Textiles Growth Programme and the Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership.

Craig Emmerson, NatWest relationship manager, said: “Canvasman has a hard-earned reputation for providing a high-quality service and building strong relationships with its many customers.

“We look forward to developing our positive relationship with its dedicated team.”

In 2015, Canvasman won the best company culture award at the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region business excellence awards.