SPECIALIST textile manufacturer Universal Carbon Fibres , based at Wyke, Bradford, has been acquired by a US company which said the deal would significantly increase its international presence .

UCF, which makes high performance yarns and fabrics , mainly from carbon-based fibres, has been bought by Tex Tech Industries which supplies the aerospace, defence, law enforcement, industrial and sporting goods sectors.

UCF specialises in durable and water resistant materials used in the transport, aerospace and communication sectors and also markets fire-resistant fabrics under the Panotex brand for personal protective clothing.

Ciaran Lynch, Text Tech chief executive, said; "UCF's engineered textile solutions are synergistic to the service and product offerings of Tex Tech and our subsidiaries.

"UCF's strong relationships with its customers and fibre manufacturers, as well as its robust manufacturing capabilities in the United Kingdom, will significantly strengthen Tex Tech's international presence."

The Bradford company will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Tex Tech and will retain its current management , staff and location.

Bill Capstick, UCF managing director, said: “Our partnership with Tex Tech will allow us to deliver value-added solutions to our existing and prospective customers. UCF and our customers will greatly benefit from Tex Tech’s global distribution platform and manufacturing proficiencies, which will shorten our product development timelines.”