LESS than three years after facing closure, Worcester fire engine giant Carmichael is aiming to take on the world.

The Weir Lane-based company has made a remarkable recovery by increasing its efficiency.

It is now looking to recruit skilled workers and has set its sights on joining the global top three manufacturers.

"It's excellent news," said managing director Terry Blizzard.

"We are really proud of the effort everyone has put in."

One of Worcester's best know manufacturing names, Carmichael has a history stretching back more than 150 years.

Now known for its fire and rescue vehicles, it was founded in 1849 in the Butts, making coaches, carriages and other horse-drawn vehicles.

But in 2005 the future looked bleak, as rumour came that its Malasian owners were proposing to stop manufacture in Worcester and switch production abroad.

More than 70 jobs were threatened, as well as part of Worcester's heritage.

However within days there was a swift U-turn, a management restructure and an assurance the company would continue at its Lower Wick factory.

"Since then, Carmichael has significantly increased its production efficiencies to lower the high costs of UK manufacturing and has achieved a record order book with contracts from Japan, Romania, Malaysia, Qatar and Oman as well as its traditional UK and MoD customers," Mr Blizzard added.

"To meet the increased production challenges, the company has negotiated increased banking facilities to ensure that the company meets its current production demands and continues to expand its global operations.

"We are the UK's largest manufacturer of airport fire and rescue vehicles and are now aiming to join the top three global manufacturers.

"With that in mind, we are now looking to increase our highly skilled labour force. It's some great news for Worcester."