AN IMPORTANT contract in Cumbrian infrastructure has been awarded to a medical equipment supplier - creating jobs for the county.

Sumed International has been appointed as contractor for Cumbria County Council, the company will service and repair the council’s lifts, hoists and specialised equipment from April 1 2021.

Sumed’s service to healthcare professionals are well respected and the business’ Leycare division which provides services to Lancashire County Council, has demonstrated good growth during 2020.

Graham Collyer, Sumed’s Executive Chairman said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this contract. We have seen a period of good sales growth in 2020, but in the challenging times presented by the Covid-19 pandemic, service related activity has been a focus for us.”

The business is continuing to make positive steps in its vital work, despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr Collyer said: “Sumed had a great year last year in very difficult circumstances.

“Covid effected most businesses and 2020 was a year where we increased our turnover by 30 per cent.

We’ve worked through and increased our work force by 50 per cent.”

He said: “It’s all through hard work. Trading has been difficult because there’s so many restrictions many of our customers aren’t open to see us.

Mr Collyer said: “But all in all we’re very happy with our growth. This new contract is brilliant news for us and anyone we employ for it in Cumbria.”

Martin Walker, Sumed’s Executive Director with responsibility for servicing activity said: “The contract award is great news, but the hard work starts now. We look forward to welcoming new members to the Sumed family and to working with the Cumbria County Council team.”

As well as servicing hoists, ensuring they are maintained to regulator standards, Sumed International is carrying out vital work such as producing support equipment for wheelchairs like inflatable cushions.

Sumed will be in attendance at the Dementia Care & Nursing Home Expo which has been postponed to September 15 and 16, 2021.