COUNTY council scientists have moved into new purpose-built premises in Stourport to cope with rocketing demand.

Worcestershire's Scientific Services - which backs up the work of trading standards - has relocated into unwanted laboratories at Morgan Matroc, Bewdley Road, after out-growing its Worcester base.

Husband and wife public analysts, Bob and Carol Stevens, lead the team of experts, which is facing an ever-increasing workload after taking on contracts from other local authorities.

The 28-strong team of scientists and administrative back-up support trading standards by testing products such as cosmetics and food products to ensure they contain what is on the label to protect consumers. The scientists also check for asbestos in buildings.

Since Hereford and Worcester County Council split into separate authorities for Worcestershire and Herefordshire in 1997, Worcestershire's scientific services section, set up more than 100 years ago, has grown by taking on work from other local authorities which do not have their own services.

Mr Stevens said they now had contracts with 20 other councils, covering a population of about eight million.

The new laboratory contains groundbreaking technology to keep the services at the forefront in the field of consumer protection.

Mr Stevens said: "We've really enjoyed our time in Worcester.

"Everyone in the city has been fantastic to us.

"But, with success, comes more work and we need to move to the purpose-built premises in Stourport to ensure we can further improve the already high quality of work as our reputation grows."

Mr and Mrs Stevens have run the county's scientific services for 10 years and before that worked together for two years doing similar work at a private Birmingham laboratory.

"It probably is quite a unique situation," said Mr Stevens, adding: "We try not to take work home."