A CROSS Hills company has been subject to a management buyout.

New bosses at CB Brook & Co Ltd, which trades as Brook International, have spoken of "exciting times ahead" for the historic textiles firm.

The company was founded in 1871 by Cyrus Brook, as a worsted fabric manufacturer, and has been led by four generations of the family.

Under the new set-up, Andrew Brook – who has been managing director and a major shareholder for more than 30 years – will continue to work within the firm, helping to build relationships with new and existing customers.

And a restructured board is in place, with Chris Drury and Chris Melia as joint managing directors.

Mr Drury has been with the business – based in Riparian Way – as senior sales and commercial manager for seven years, and Mr Melia joined Brook International 17 years ago as company secretary/management accountant.

Together they have had responsibility for areas including sales, finance, IT, human resources and marketing, and they will continue with those duties in addition to their MD roles.

"I am delighted and honoured to have been offered the opportunity to continue to work with such a high-quality management team," said Mr Melia.

"The deal has ensured a seamless transition of control from the Brook family and represents an exciting opportunity for both Chris and I to implement our vision for the future.

"We are very pleased that Andrew Brook has agreed to continue to add his vast knowledge and experience of our industry to our company – exciting times lie ahead for this great Yorkshire business!"

He added: "As with any important business change, we will continue to work closely with our customers, partners and suppliers to ensure the transition process is smooth.

"We guarantee that our customers will continue to receive the same high standards of service.

"This is the beginning of an exciting period for Brook International, that the board and management team are confident will facilitate future growth and opportunities."

Advice on the deal was provided by the Yorkshire corporate finance team – led by Chris Wright – of Armstrong Watson, a firm of accountants, business strategists and financial advisors.

Legal advice was given by a team headed by corporate partner Duncan Firman – of Gordons – and Umberto Vietri, of AWB Charlesworth.

Brook International is a worldwide supplier of specialist fabrics to the flag, banner and digital imaging print industries.

The firm was based at a mill in Drighlington.

But in the early 2000s it switched its focus from manufacturing to sales, marketing and product development and in 2003 relocated to its current premises in Cross Hills.

Mr Brook said he welcomed the buyout.

"It was imperative to secure a successful succession plan for the business given its long-established family ties," he added.

"I am pleased that each Chris was up for the challenge and I look forward to working with them both going forward.

"I would like to thank Chris Wright and Robert Wilkinson, of Armstrong Watson, and Duncan Firman of Gordons for all their hard work."