Pontypool-based Flamgard Calidair hosted a visit from Baroness Rona Fairhead, minister of state for international trade, who toured the facility and discussed various international deals in the pipeline.

Flamgard directors Steve Edwards and Lee Bramald met the Baroness at the recent ADIPEC event in the Middle East – The Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference – and extended an invitation for her to visit their manufacturing and engineering base, which she accepted.

Lee said: “Following that successful meeting at the ADIPEC exhibition, the minister made a point to join us at our facility to review the exciting product developments we have underway in the field of high integrity dampers. She also provided an offer for help regarding our many export projects either currently underway or in the tender stage, which was greatly appreciated by all at Flamgard.

“It’s great to see ministers getting involved in the day-to-day work required to bring British expertise and products to international markets,” said Steve.

“We were impressed by the Baroness’ understanding of our situation in the industry and by her dedication to helping us maximise the potential of the global damper market.”

Cllr Alan Jones, executive member for business, culture, leisure and tourism at Torfaen County Borough Council, said: “It’s good to hear that a Torfaen company like Flamgard Calidair are doing so well and that they are attracting interest from the highest level. I wish them well with their new developments and export projects.”