A Forest of Dean manufacturer of modular accommodation and retail space has announced plans to double its workforce.

Lydney-firm NewSpace is set to create at least 120 new jobs and has started the immediate search for 30 fabricator welders and a variety of industrial paint sprayers - with another 60 specialists needed by the end of this year.

The company, which currently employs 125 people at its multi-acre site on the Lydney Harbour Estate, is working closely with jobs firm GMP Recruitment to find the additional workers - with a recruitment team based onsite to support the drive.

NewSpace designs and creates temporary and residential housing, welfare units, offices, canteens and shops and has been involved in various projects including the high-speed rail line HS2, the construction and hospitality sectors, and played its role in reducing homelessness.

Mike Pincott, director at GMP Recruitment, said: "NewSpace are growing at a phenomenal rate due to their first-class reputation in the industry and it's great news for the local area to see so many new jobs coming after such a tough year.

"This is a huge recruitment drive and because of its scale, we've also moved experts from our team to NewSpace's Lydney offices to find the right candidates with the right skills quickly."

Nigel Allen, operations director at NewSpace, added: "We are in a period of unprecedented growth and we simply have to expand to keep up with the demand for the buildings and spaces we supply. To be offering these new roles is another big milestone for us and the local economy here in Gloucestershire.

"Whether it's a self-contained fish and chip shop or temporary housing for rough sleepers, we produce some extremely versatile accommodation which is used all over the country.

"To keep doing that, we need skilled people and working with Mike and the team will help us find them."