A SIGNAGE firm founded in Bradford 130 years ago is celebrating this milestone as it aims for further growth and expansion.

Widd Signs was founded in 1888 by teenager Arthur Widd in Grattan Road.

Mr Widd left school as a 12-year-old before setting his company up aged 17.

Its first customers included brewers John Smith’s and Joshua Tetley & Sons, and the firm now counts Marks & Spencer, Levi’s, Burnley FC and the National Science and Media Museum among its clients.

The firm, which is now based in Leeds, has a multi-million pound turnover and designs, produces and implements a range of bespoke signs.

Rory Campbell-Pilling, head of operations, said: “Widd Signs has a rich and enterprising history.

“Our founder started out at a time when sign writing was all freelance, but he had the vision to see commercial opportunity in setting up one of the first signage businesses, and that entrepreneurial spirit still drives the company today.

“Our future is to take our extensive knowledge and experience into complementary sectors, as well as continuing to grow within retail.”