A VEHICLE components manufacturer is celebrating its 40th anniversary since it started as a shop in Addingham distributing windscreen wipers.

P. A. Thorpe (Vehicle Components) Ltd has grown to become a leading manufacturer of TYRI Lights for the UK and portions of the European market, employing 35 people at its Skipton headquarters.

Founded in 1977 by its current owner, Philip Thorpe, the company specialises in supplying quality components for the forestry, construction, agriculture and material handling sectors.

In 2002, P.A. Thorpe became a founding member of TYRI Inc., working with sister companies in the US and Scandinavia. The company now manufactures a comprehensive range of TYRI products in Skipton, distributes for DOGA windscreen/washer systems and, in addition, offers a bespoke range of steering wheels for the construction, agricultural and off highway industries.

Mr Thorpe said: “Starting in business 40 years ago out of a small shop in Addingham selling DOGA windscreen wiper components manufactured in Spain, to our purpose-built Skipton location manufacturing Tyri lighting products, has taken a lot of hard work and dedication.

"I would like to thank those that have worked for the company throughout the years and wish everyone continued success in the future.”

The company has been recognised for its customer service from global manufacturers, including Caterpillar’s articulated truck division, John Deere (as a Partner Level Supplier for both 2015 and 2016), and Hyster-Yale Group Inc. (European Supplier of the Year in 2012 and again in 2016).