A former managing director of a Queen's Award-winning Gloucestershire business has been revealed as the man behind the takeover of another county company.

John Little, the former boss of Nailsworth-based Fluid Transfer International and board director of Sturrock & Robson UK, is the businessman heading of the takeover of Sentinel Systems.

Hazlewoods Corporate Finance has revealed the detail and it should know as it advised on the sale of the Kemble-based business, a specialist in vehicle safety and camera solutions.

Sentinel was founded in 1986 by Bill Paulson and for the last few years has been managed by his son David. And it looks like the deal is good news for staff at the company with the new owner sounding positive about the future.

Mr Little said: "I am delighted to have acquired the family owned and run business of Sentinel Systems and look forward to continuing the growth journey started by Bill and taken forward by David in more recent years.

"Moreover, I am excited to by the future growth potential of the business through the expansive existing product range complemented with new innovative product introductions going forward

"All of this whilst having the opportunity to work with such an experienced team that prides itself on delivering excellent customer service.

"I would like to thank Bill and David for their professionalism in handling the sale and business transfer, and pass my best wishes to Bill in his retirement and to David in his future endeavours going forward."

Sentinel's patented Safetystop auto-braking reversing aid is used on refuse vehicles, road sweepers, delivery vans, large trucks, and trailers.

The company also offers CCTV and cyclist protection systems, which are used by blue-chip supermarkets and food-service companies, as well as public service and logistics fleets.

David Paulson, former shareholder and CEO, said: "We are very pleased to hand the business over to John. He has an outstanding track record of business growth and technical excellence, and is committed to developing Sentinel in both UK and overseas markets from its Gloucestershire base.

"It was important to us to find a buyer who would offer our staff the chance to develop their careers in a growing business, and would be able to take Sentinel to new levels of innovation that will benefit our customers and suppliers." 

Paul Fussell and the Hazlewoods team handled the deal for the family.

"Paul's support has been exceptional throughout the sale process; he is creative and positive, and has enabled us to achieve a solution which is good for our staff and customers," said David.