Two plasterers have joined forces to launch a new construction business in Gloucestershire already employing a team of staff.

Rich Fletcher and Clive Noble, now trading as Stroud Machine Plastering Ltd, have taken on an office and store on a two-year lease at Bond's Mill, Stonehouse, owned by Robert Hitchins Ltd.

The pair had been working together for 11 years, each with their own companies - Mr Fletcher running NW Plastering, of Stonebouse, and Mr Noble heading up CA Noble Plastering Services, of Stroud.

"Due to our expanding workload and team of five, we took the decision to incorporate as Stroud Machine Plastering Ltd and find office and storage facilities," said Mr Fletcher.

"The Bond's Mill premises are perfect - close the M5 with great facilities including parking and a café. We're really enjoying being part of the vibrant business community on site and have already found reciprocal business among the many other tenants.

"We have invested not only in machinery that applies coloured render externally, but also some new machinery that allows us to spray internal plaster. That's something pretty exclusive in Gloucestershire."

Helen Hawke from Robert Hitchin, said: "This is the third new tenant to join Bond's Mill this year, adding to the wide variety and number of companies on site.

"Part of the Bond's Mill ethos has always been to accommodate start-up and expanding companies and, with offices currently available ranging from 200 to 5,000 sq ft, there's an opportunity for them to grow on site and then, either move to another Robert Hitchins property or have a bespoke building developed."

There are now 50 tenants on the Bond's Mill site, on the A419 close to Junction 13 of the M5.

Businesses include Power Solutions, Green Gourmet, Omega Resource, Biocensus and BPE Solicitors.

Andrew Watton Property Consultants acted on behalf of Robert Hitchins Ltd, which is headquartered at Boddington.