VALE of Evesham co-operative Littleton and Badsey Growers has expanded its requisites business by taking over rival GMS.

Exactly a year after the 600-member LBG came close to being sold, the directors of the two companies announced the take-over.

"I'm delighted with the excellent staff and modern facilities at Vale Park and am certain this will provide a stable future for a growers' horticultural business in the Vale of Evesham," said Bill Arnold, chairman of LBC.

"The amalgamation of the two businesses will make a wider range of products and services available to all members and customers."

Tony Fawcett, managing director of GMS said: "I have always felt that there were significant benefits to a combined requisites operation.

"This agreement allows GMS to concentrate on its core business of marketing short shelf-life fresh produce to both the multiples and the food service sector, an area which necessitates development capital."

Chris Harvey, vice chairman of LBG, added the new company would be re-named in the future but said no changes would take place at present.

The move marks a significant step forward for LBG, for many years a major player in the horticultural world in the Vale but which has recently had a chequered life.

The society was put on the market last May, but an at extraordinary general meeting in Evesham Town Hall last November, members voted to give the board another opportunity to revive the society.