A PHARMACEUTICAL L firm has jumped up a definitive rankings of the UK's fastest growing companies.

This is the second year running that Wasdell has appeared in the Sunday Times’ BDO Profit Track 100 which saw it leap from 94th place to take the spot at number 81.

The firm, which exports innovative manufactured pharmaceutical packaging to 47 countries around the world and employs 650 people in Swindon, also came 17th in the South West Business Insider’s Medium Sized Business 100 list.

The insider calculates company performance by a combination of turnover and profit, something which the firm is not short of.

Over the past seven years its profits have jumped from £2m to £41.1m in 2017/18, with pre-tax profit of £9.1m.

CEO Martin Tedham said: “We’re delighted once again that an independent, Swindon-headquartered company has been recognised as one of Britain’s fastest growing businesses according to profit.

"To have moved up the ranks this far is a great honour, and is testament to the dedication and hard work of all our staff across all areas and specialisms, including those here in Swindon.

“The pharmaceutical sector is an exciting one to work in and we strive to stay ahead of the many global pressures that come with it."

The news comes as the firm as looking to build a new science park development at Wanborough to expand its operations further.

Although it has come up against firm opposition from residents, this hasn't got in the company setting its goals high to become a leader in its industry.

Martin added: "We have ambitious plans to continue this growth to support and maintain our position at the forefront of the pharmaceutical packaging market in Europe.

“With 650 employees based here in Swindon our growth and success brings benefits to all our colleagues, suppliers and has a positive impact on the local economy more generally.

"Swindon has many great companies with lots of potential and we’re honoured that we can do our bit to reminding the country what a great contribution our town continues to make to UK PLC.”