Firms from a wide range of industries have boosted their sales thanks to a trade mission to Ireland.

The Export Explorer Trade Mission was organised by Business Link Bradford & District and involved 13 firms.

Bingley firm Plantups Ltd, which manufactures a revolutionary vertical plant pot system, has appointed a distributor and is confident of doing some substantial business.

Mike Lamb, of Plantups, said: "We have appointed a distributor for our products in Ireland and found the mission to be well worth the time and effort.

"The advantage of going on the Export Explorer mission is that you don't have to drop everything to make it a success.

"We had contacts identified in Ireland that suited us and we travelled in groups of like-minded exporters so we could swap ideas. I'd recommend this sort of thing to anyone looking to start exporting."

Other success stories included Skipton company Verner Wheelock Associates which provides consultancy and management development for the food industry.

Their representative, Adele Adams, said: "I was pleased with the result of the mission as I secured a training deal with a high-profile company while I was out there. Prospects for the future look good and VWA will be returning soon."

Mission leader Franoise Joyce, of Business Link Bradford & District, said: "The Ireland mission was very successful and gave a number of companies their first business overseas.

"Certainly any company looking to start exporting should take a look at Ireland, as it's a good starter market. I am pleased to say that the mission was a success and business was secured."

For details of other trade missions contact Business Link on (01274) 751385.