A SOUTH Lakeland printing firm has changed hands, marking the end of an era for its founder.

Mike Miller has bowed out after a lengthy career in the printing industry, but it is business as usual for Kendal-based MTP Design and Print, which has been acquired by two employees.

New owners Dean Lowes and Alistair Sanderson are looking to expand the business and eventually take on extra staff.

Mr Lowes, who has worked for the firm for four years, and Mr Sanderson, who joined in August 2005, said they had jumped at the chance to take over the business.

Mr Lowes has 22 years of experience in the industry, having previously worked at the now defunct Frank Peters Printers at Gatebeck, while his new business partner is a graphic designer.

While they look to grow the business, Mr Miller is looking forward to retirement after a career in printing that began in 1962 when he joined The Westmorland Gazette’s general printing department as an apprentice compositor.

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