A GROWING engineering firm that has invested £2.5 million in its Sittingbourne complex is gearing up for new jobs. MKE Engineering Group hopes to increase its workforce of 40 at Dolphin Park, Sittingbourne, over the next two years. If demand continues to rise, it could be as many as 20 new jobs.

The electric motor specialist group has been in business for nearly 50 years and now employs 90 people across five main engineering disciplines - electrical, drive systems, autometric pumps, engineering and mechanical services. Director Martin Savage said: "With support and commitment from our customers, the demand has increased and will hopefully continue. As it does, we will obviously be looking for personnel in all disciplines to satisfy the increased demand."

Steve Gaymer, MKE's sales and marketing manager, said: "We are looking for more people all the time. The demand is there; it's all about getting the message out to the customer." MKE (Mid Kent Electrical Engineering) has defied the challenging conditions facing the engineering industry by undergoing radical change in recent years. In 1999, it opened its new facilities at Dolphin Park with four engineers.

Now it employs 40 people in Sittingbourne and has recently bought the adjoining workshop, effectively doubling floor space. This new facility will be officially unveiled at an open day at Dolphin Park on July 11. It will feature technical seminars, factory tours and exhibition standsand proceeds, expected to be more than £1,000, will go to Demelza House children's hospice. Details from Mr Gaymer on 01795 436611.

MKE has forged alliances with suppliers such as ABB. As an ABB Motor Service partner, it has exclusive rights across Kent, Medway, London and the South East. The firm has come a long way since Colin Savage, company chairman, and Bill Prior, managing director, founded the family firm in Detling, near Maidstone, in 1955. Mr Savage's sons Andrew and Martin have joined Mr Prior and their father on the MKE board. While the company has kept the original Detling site, it has expanded into new premises in Sittingbourne, Erith and Rainham, Essex.