HONEYBOURNE-based Ferryfast Produce Ltd. has bought the former GMS premises in Pershore.

Director Bob Byrd said: "This will enable the continuation of expansion that Ferryfast has had over the last 10 years. Ferryfast suppliers and customers are delighted because of the many benefits to all."

He said: "We were sorry to see GMS go into receivership with the loss of local jobs and outlets for local growers, however, Ferryfast is confident that the move could fill the void left by the demise of GMS."

Mr Byrd said he anticipated the Ferryfast move from Honeybourne Airfield to the Ascot Road site would be completed over the next two months.

When the move is complete, all 90 employees will be operating from the new site in Pershore.

The company operates 30 lorries, from articulated vehicles down to four small lorries, and their move will mean they will no longer have to use the unsuitable roads through Bretforton and Badsey.

Mr Byrd said: "Altogether it is a very exciting time for our company and the Vale of Evesham as a whole."

Wychavon District Councillor Richard Lasota, who has spearheaded the fight to keep lorries off village roads in the Vale, welcomed the move.

"Obviously," he said, "as far as lorries through the Vale is concerned it will be a big help. Most vehicle movements seem to be between Honeybourne and Evesham bypass and so it has got to be a bonus - provided we don't get a similar type operation move on to the Ferryfast site afterwards."

He added: "We have lost the lorries but none of the jobs as the firm will still be local."

Receivers were called in to GMS in January and as a result over 50 employees lost their jobs.