A GOSPORT yacht company which employs 25 people is set for a bumper year after a record increase in orders.

Opal Marine boat sales in Quay Lane clinched £1.5 million in orders in just six weeks.

Barrie Stillwell, Opal Marine's managing director, who works from their Hayling Island office, said: "We've done amazingly well. It's very encouraging.

"The price of sterling has helped boost sales, as well as the fact that we are the only UK importer of three makes of yacht which are becoming very popular."

Mr Stillwell added: "The craft we sell are the sailing equivalent to a top class BMW or Mercedes. We are doing particularly well with the first time buyers. This is an important market because our customers could be tomorrow's luxury boat buyers."

And he promises new job opportunities for the sales team who have been rushed off their feet in recent weeks.

Opal Marine import German-made Bavaria boats and American Hunter Legends and Main Ship yachts. Prices range from £15,000 to £200,000.

Sales manager Mark Farrow said: "The figures are fantastic. We've worked very hard here, but it's been worth it."

The good news also means extra business for Fareham-based Simpson-Lawrence who supply marine parts from their Segensworth warehouse.

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