A unique Keighley company specialising in clothing for the mature person is celebrating a major expansion.

Pauline May's, based in Worth Way, has opened a new concession in the Sunwin House store at Brighouse and is set to launch a second at Sale in Cheshire as soon as staff have been recruited.

The company also aims to launch its own website and start selling via the Internet in the near future.

The company's success is testament to the determination and flair of Keighley businesswoman Pauline Sargeant.

She started the business from her own dining room 10 years ago.

"I believe we have got everything right now," said Pauline.

"You have to believe in what you are doing, otherwise you are wasting your time and might as well pack up."

Within just two months of starting the business in her dining room Pauline had moved into her garage and was employing two girls to work for her, operating a Party Plan and visiting local nursing homes.

Six months later she had taken a small unit at Mantra House, and later had around 1,000 sq ft of floorspace in three units before moving to her shop at Worth Way two years ago.

Pauline now has her own label and has all her skirts, blouses, trousers and cardigans made exclusively for her. She provides a unique service for the older person.

All her clothing is available in sizes to cover the whole range from size 8 to 32, and she can outfit men as well as women.

"As far as I know my service is unique in this country," she said.

"It is the only business of its kind offering a unique range of sizes, all under one roof and all with a full guarantee.

"It's fashionable, easy to care for and reasonably priced."

The company employs three staff at its Keighley shop and three part-timers at Brighouse, as well as seven girls 'on the road' dealing with the Party Plan business.

In its first year Pauline May's turned over £67,000, and by last year turnover was £350,000.

"I expect to hit £500,000 this year and am confident I can soon reach £1 million," said Pauline.