Press information To download a text file of this release, a 250 pixel wide low-res image for web use or a 300dpi print quality image, go to www.parkfield.co.uk/cranford Cranford Controls creates new Technical Director post Released 17 August 2005 To further focus the company on growth through new product introduction and close customer liaison, Billy Blakeman has been promoted to the position of Technical Director at Cranford Controls, the leading independent manufacturer of sounders, beacons and ancillary devices for the fire, security and process control industries. Billy has been with the company for seven years, during which time he has been directly responsible for the electronic, acoustic and mechanical design of the majority of the company's current product range. In his expanded role, Billy will have significant commercial responsibilities, supporting existing customers and assisting the sales team in developing new business worldwide as well as leading the development team in extending the product portfolio. New products offering extended user features such as improved efficiency, lower current draw and easier installation, are already well advanced through the design cycle and will be launched during the next few months. Design for manufacture and test, to enable optimum use of Cranford Controls' recent investment in a new production facility and automated SMT lines, is a further key requirement of all new products, ensuring high quality, repeatable volume production. He will also be responsible for liaison with LPCB, VdS and other test houses to ensure that all products are approved to EN54, conform to relevant national standards and meet the requirements of the CPD. He is an active member of the BFPSA Task Group on alarm devices, helping to develop new European standards for audible visual products. *** Ends: body copy 245 words *** Notes to editors. For further information: Kay Newman Cranford Controls Unit 2 Waterbrook Estate Waterbrook Road Alton GU34 2UD tel: + 44 (0)1420 592444 fax:+ 44 (0)1420 592445 k.newman@cranfordcontrols.com www.cranfordcontrols.com Agency contact: Nigel May Parkfield Communications Limited Parkfield House Damerham Hants SP6 3HQ tel: + 44 (0)1725 518321 fax: + 44 (0)1725 518378 nigel.may@parkfield.co.uk www.parkfield.co.uk Cranford Controls is a leading independent manufacturer of audible and visual warning devices and ancillary products for use in the fire, security and process control industries.