wins major contract

with Leonardo Helicopters to protect our troops

A market leader in the manufacture of composite materials for the aerospace, defence, rail, automotive and medical markets has been contracted by Leonardo Helicopters to supply comprehensive ballistic protection for the Royal Navy’s new Commando Merlin Mk4 helicopters.

The requirement, valued at more than £2 million, will create and sustain skilled composite manufacturing jobs at Permali’s Gloucester factory.

The Commando Merlin is an advanced battlefield helicopter designed for amphibious operations, and will deliver troops and supplies into conflict zones as well as supporting humanitarian operations.

Permali’s ballistic protection will protect the troops against small arms fire.

This project joins the wide range of ballistic armour that Permali has supplied to armed forces and original equipment manufacturers around the world for equipment operating on land and in the air and sea.

Permali’s Director of Special Projects, Nick Baird, said “We are delighted to continue our close relationship with Leonardo Helicopters.

“We are honoured to be entrusted with the protection of British military personnel.

“The majority of the UK’s Joint Helicopter Command aircraft rely on Permali’s composite ballistic protection expertise, including the Chinook, Puma and Merlin fleets.

We are delighted to be working with our three new investors to shape a really exciting future for the brewery.

Martin, who is also chairman of Cheltenham Racecourse, said: “I decided to get involved with Gloucester Brewery because I love supporting local businesses and young entrepreneurs who are trying to develop ideas and create something interesting. Gloucester Brewery ticked both of those boxes.

Lucky Onion opens three pubs in six weeks

The Lucky Onion pub and hotel group, owned by Julian and Jade Dunkerton, wrapped up a busy year by hosting three openings in less than six weeks before Christmas.

The 17th century Cotswold stone Hollow Bottom pub at Guiting Power reopened after being bought by the group earlier in the year. That was followed by the renovation and reopening of The Crown at Minchinhampton, which closed its doors five years ago.

The final hurrah for 2019 for this ambitious pub company was the launch of The King’s House at 131, next door to The Lucky Onion’s established hotel on The Promenade in Cheltenham.