Two Kent security firms have merged in a deal described as “a great step forward” by both companies.

Ashford-based Red Alert has joined forces with Kent and Sussex Security (KSS), also from the town.

All staff will be retained following the deal, with KSS moving to Red Alert’s offices at Orbital Park and coming under its brand.

KSS directors Geoff Hilton and John Jameson will join the board at Red Alert, whose managing director Clive Gawler will remain in his post.

The two companies have worked together on projects in the past, prompting the friendly merger.

Mr Gawler said: “Red Alert is already the leading independent security specialist in the South East and we are looking forward to growing further.

“The merger will also allow KSS customers to benefit from Red Alert’s larger, 15-strong technical team.

“We have pledged to keep on all the KSS staff as we pursue our plans to make Red Alert the preferred security supplier to both the domestic and commercial market in London and the South East...” - Red Alert's Clive Gawler

“We have pledged to keep on all the KSS staff as we pursue our plans to make Red Alert the preferred security supplier to both the domestic and commercial market in London and the South East.”

Red Alert has been providing intruder and fire alarms, CCTV and entry systems across the South East for more than 20 years.

KSS was established in 1996 and adds security industry and specialist CCTV knowledge to the expanding Red Alert operation.

Red Alert’s sister company Red Alert Telecare will continue to operate in the health care sector, where it installs and maintains high-tech telecare and telehealth equipment for vulnerable people living independently at home.

The company will be launching a new red button lifeline service shortly.