Growth at a Bradford producer of bespoke caravan and motorhome protective covers has been cited as an example of increasing optimism among the region's manufacturing firms.

Pro-Tec Covers, based at St Andrew’s Mill, Willowfield Street, which has increased sales to £1 million and recruited more staff, was among firms surveyed for the latest Manufacturing Advisory Service Barometer.

The survey reveals that 40 per cent of companies questioned have seen an increase in their order books over the past six months, with 62 per cent expecting sales turnover to grow between now and June.

Pro-Tec Covers, which employs 18 people, was boosted after founders Keith and Anne Procter appeared on Dragon's Den last year and persuaded multi-millionaire entrepreneurs Duncan Bannatyne and Hilary Devey. to invest £75,000 in the business, helping to create six new jobs.

With their support Pro-Tec has produced more than 4,000 covers this year and is increasing output to match growing demand.

Mr Proctor, who started the business with his wife Anne in 1999, said: “We’re up to £1m of sales and have taken on new staff, including an apprentice and the possibility of a graduate joining the ranks. Whilst caravan and motorhome covers remain our core products, we are flexible in our approach and can cater for virtually every end use. For example, we’ve worked on bikes, big equipment and even X-ray machinery for the London Eye.

“We’ve also put in place some major investment plans with one CNC machine purchased in 2012 and another one due later this year. We are also examining how we can digitise our patterns. Going forward, we will look to launch new products and increase our share of the European market.”

MAS said the predicted expansion among Yorkshire's manufacturers was backed up by a nine per cent rise to 40 per cent of firms expecting to take on staff and those investing in new premises and machinery, up by five per cent to 44 per cent. A skills shortage remained the main barrier to growth for 55 per cent of businesses, with some firms turning to older or retired workers to fill the gap.

CNC programmers, apprentice trained mechanical engineers and lean manufacturing managers were among those most in demand by Yorkshire manufacturers.

The survey showed that apprentices and graduates were expected to fill 47 per cent of new manufacturing jobs between now and 2016.

MAS area director Martin Coats said: “The overwhelming feeling is one of positivity, with sales expectations, future investment in premises and machinery and the desire to create employment all up on the previous report.”