THE Duke of Kent helped a leading international company celebrate its 30th anniversary in Newton Aycliffe.

Roman, the family-owned shower designer and manufacturer, is active in 28 international markets and has supplied products for projects in more than 48 markets across the world.

A well established UK brand, it supplies some of the most prestigious hotels in the world and has well established subsidiary businesses in Malaysia and Ireland.

Gerald Osborne, chairman founded the company in 1985, and puts its continued success down to consistent and creative product innovation.

He and managing director David Osborne, officially welcomed the Duke and took him on a tour of the showroom and factory. He met some of the 180 strong workforce, including Deborah Green, the longest serving member, who has been with the company for 25 years.

The firm has made significant investment in its manufacturing facility over the last 12 months. Its extensive range of products includes high quality shower enclosures, contemporary wet room panels, ingenious bath screens, low level shower trays and a range of luxury accessories.

It supplies every sector – from affordable price sensitive ranges to the most exclusive, designer and luxurious bathrooms in the world.

David Osborne said: "We are exceptionally proud to have The Duke of Kent come and share our 30 year milestone with us. We are delighted that Roman has continued to grow and transform into the leading shower manufacturer that we are today."