Versarien: The engineering dreams putting area on the map

THE next generation of scientists and engineers were inspired by a company which it is hoped will lead economic growth in the Forest of Dean.

THE next generation of scientists and engineers were inspired by a company which it is hoped will lead economic growth in the Forest of Dean.

Versarien Technologies welcomed students, business leaders and dignitaries from across Gloucestershire to the opening of its new headquarters in Mitcheldean.

The younger visitors took part in a range of science workshops, experienced cutting-edge virtual reality and learnt that engineers have a hand in building some of the world's supercars, which took pride of place inside the former Rank Zerox premises. Students from Forest E-Act, Dene Magna and Gloucestershire College were invited to the event in the hope they will be inspired to become the next successful entrepreneurs to help industry thrive in the district.

Sandra Tyrell, assistant principal of Gloucestershire College's Forest campus, said: "Primary schools and secondary schools have been coming in to see what talent there is in the Forest of Dean and if they want they can aim to be part of a cutting edge manufacturing facility. The Forest is about manufacturing and industry and it is great to see a new company like this with innovative ideas working closely with its community." Versarien chief Neill Ricketts said the event was held to tell teenagers that science and engineering is a "great way of achieving their dreams".

Since the company's humble beginnings in Mr Ricketts' garage four years ago, it has outgrown a 2,000sq ft unit in Cinderford and now operates at a huge base at Vantage Point Business Village, which it is hoped will accommodate its future growth. Versarien now owns three operating companies employing more than 60 staff, has a net worth of more than Pounds 30million and has an active apprenticeship programme.

It also has an interest in graphene, a strong, flexible, transparent and extremely conductive material which Mr Ricketts believes will have the same impact on industry as silicone did in the sixties and seventies. Dame Janet Trotter, Gloucestershire's Lord Lieutenant, led a ribbon cutting ceremony and said Mr Ricketts "has shown inspirational leadership and he is a role model for other people in the county".

Mr Ricketts added: "Our intention is to create jobs. We are in the process of expanding very quickly. I want to put the Forest of Dean back on the map with some of the other great businesses here. I am working to showcase what a fabulous place the Forest is, not only to work, but also to live."