Exports and coronavirus restrictions helped drive a sales increase of 93 per cent for Gloucester trolley manufacturer Stewart Golf last year.

Demand for the company's trolleys grew as golfers were forced out of buggies by the pandemic rules and looked lighten the load as they walked the course.

While UK sales grew by 33 per cent, exports soared to account for almost 75 per cent of sales.

And having increased staff numbers by more than 50 per cent, Stewart Golf intends to grow that figure further this year while its Quedgeley factory will expand by 50 per cent to 10,000sq ft next month.

Chis executive Mark Stewart said: "Clearly we're thrilled with our 2020 performance. 

"It's been a crazy year in so many ways and we consider ourselves very fortunate that our business has been able to blossom during the pandemic when so many have suffered."

He continued: "The team have been nothing short of spectacular. Doubling in size would be a tall order in any year, but to do it with such significant obstacles in the way is exceptional.

"The international appeal of our machines has been demonstrated by our rising levels of export. Stewart Golf is truly a global brand and we're excited about what the future holds for the business."

Stewart Golf sold to 45 countries including the USA - where sales in April and May alone doubled the total for 2019 - Canada, South Africa, Singapore, and South Korea.

European sales increased by 16 per cent despite Brexit uncertainty throughout the year.

The company built 65 per cent more of its X Series electric trolleys than in 2019 while production of the R1-S Push increased by 51 per cent.

The company launched the Q Follow in November after four years of design and development.