Avonside, which was formed in 2003 following a management buy-out, employs around 450 people, the majority of whom are qualified trades people, working from four offices across the North of England and Scotland including one in Leigh.

The company, which had a turnover of £42m last year, was sold by its directors who will be remaining with Avonside as it becomes part of the thriving Rok business.

Rok, which has 54 offices across the UK and employs 4,400 people and has made it known that it is keen to increase its numbers of directly employed tradespeople.

Chief executive of Rok, Garvis Snook, said: "Avonside is a high quality business with very strong management and we are delighted that the team has decided to join Rok. Avonside will expand our own labour force where our preference for direct delivery of services is key to customer satisfaction and margin growth."

"The acquisition also provides a strong platform from which to extend our plumbing, heating and electrical services across the rest of the UK."