A POOLE firm is set to gain a £150,000 contract after going on the Dorset Business trade mission to Singapore.

Gas handling equipment company Northey Technologies expects to receive the order from Singapore Public Utilities in the next quarter.

It has also identified potential business in Malaysia "running to hundreds of thousands".

MD Bernard Whicher said the chamber's export mission "was a tremendous opportunity for us to build on our business relations" in the Far East.

A reception hosted by British High Commissioner to Singapore Alan Collins - a Poole resident - was proved particularly helpful, he added.

Mission objectives included investigating the possibility of further inward investment from Singapore, building on earlier investment by Singapore Technologies Aerospace at Bournemouth Airport.

Airport commercial development director Roger Parker said: "I was able to meet with senior personnel from Singapore Technologies Aerospace. I was able to hear first hand about their future development potential and how Bournemouth Airport can assist."

Poole Harbour Commissioners chief executive and Dorset Business vice president Jim Stewart said: "Any increase in trade between Dorset and South East Asian businesses is likely to result in increased activity within the port."

Borough of Poole chief executive John McBride said: "In the global economy it is essential for the long term health and vibrancy of local businesses and the community that we explore significant opportunities such as this.

"The contacts established during this trip will help to improve employment and training opportunities for local people, their children and grandchildren."

First published: May 9