NEW machinery has been installed at a Royal Warrant-holding tailors’ firm thanks to the help of a £57,000 grant.

Samuel Brothers, based in Parkeston, has invested in more modern sewing machines, a fuse press and computer-aided design technology to help expand its work.

Not only has the investment seen new technologies brought in, but the associated work has protected 22 job roles and created four more and allowed the company to continue with its apprenticeship and student programmes.

The new machinery, which also includes a laser cutter, was bought with the support of a £57,510 grant from Tendring Council’s SME Growth Fund.

Mary Newton, Tendring Council’s cabinet member for business and economic growth, said the Samuel Brothers’ grant was a perfect example of what the fund was for.

“There are many fantastic small and medium-sized business in Tendring, each employing dozens of people and contributing to our diverse economy, but who often need a little help to take things to the next level,” Mrs Newton said.

“By providing some financial support to protect and create jobs, and help local businesses grow – as in this case – we’re not only helping these firms, but the wider district, which is exactly what the SME Growth Fund was intended for.”

Samuel Brothers, which was founded 190 years ago, makes uniforms for the military and for heads of state.

In 2017 it received a Royal Warrant as tailors to HM the Queen.

Lee Dawson, managing director of Samuel Brothers, said the new technology was important for the firm to survive and thrive.

“Though our products and practices are steeped in tradition and carefully made, we must also keep up with the times – which is what this new equipment will allow us to do,” Mr Dawson added.

“The SME Growth Fund grant means we can continue to develop and expand, providing employment to more local people, and look ahead to our next 190 years of business.”

The fund has provided businesses in Tendring with grants of up to £150,000 to support match-funding for initiatives which created or protected jobs and aided with business growth – with a total of £625,000 allocated to local businesses over the past five years.

As grants are match-funded by the applicant, the fund has also encouraged £1.682 million of private investment into the district, and safeguarded or created 96 full-time equivalent jobs.

Applications to the fund are now closed.