AN engineering company founded nearly 50 years ago in Detling has invested £2.5 million in expanding its operations in Sittingbourne.

MKE Engineering Group, set up by Detling-born engineer Colin Savage, expects to boost turnover and jobs with its new workshops at Dolphin Park, Sittingbourne.

The company supplies, installs and repairs motors, pumps, gearboxes and provides a range of other services, especially to the Kent-based pulp and paper industry.

The company, which has kept its original Detling workshops, is part of an approved partnership network set up by global manufacturer ABB.

Steve Ruddell, ABB senior vice president, joined Mr Savage in officially opening the workshops during a special charity open day for clients and suppliers.

Mr Ruddell paid tribute to MKE, saying: "They've really exploited the opportunities that exist in the marketplace. There are nearly 200 people at this event, a strong endorsement of the esteem in which this group is held."

Mr Savage, 80, chairman, said he had no idea when he founded the company in Detling in 1955 that it would survive into the 21st century.

The MKE Open Day raised £1,000 for Demelza House, the children's hospice in Sittingbourne.