A DIRECTOR of a highly respected business in Hampshire has realised his wealth dreams after selling up.

Andrew Pirie banked an undisclosed amount of money after his family-owned specialist coatings firm was bought by a father-and-son team from Dorset.

Details of the deal have only just been released.

Hydralon, situated across the road from the Saints' £32m stadium in Southampton, has been taken on by Jim Baker and his son Chris.

The private, independent company, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, employs 40 people and specialises in applying powder and plastic coatings.

Products include anti-graffiti systems, anti-bacterial coatings used in hospitals and the catering industry, and anti-corrosion coatings for outdoor use, as well as providing its own patented anti-slip coating.

Hydralon's purchaser Chris Baker also operates a business based in Poole, Dorset.

Air Blast Services specialises in industrial painting, grit blasting, graffiti removal and steam cleaning, along with specialist finishes and preparations.

Hydralon was said to be a good fit with the existing business and will "provide opportunities for both companies to expand their market share".

The Bakers' acquisition was overseen by regional accountants HWB, based at Chandler's Ford.

HWB director Richard Hurst and corporate finance manager Nicolette Frogley advised the purchasers throughout the acquisition.

Hurst said: "I had previously assisted Chris and his team at Air Blast with strategic advice. Therefore, when Chris was looking to acquire Hydralon, we were ideally placed to assist him.

"Hydralon are very well known in the industry and have very good facilities in Southampton.

"Many of the staff at Hydralon have years of experience in the industry and have played a vital role in the increase in turnover that has been achieved since the acquisition.

"There has been an increase in the opportunities for additional work and new customers, which has been very rewarding for Chris and his team."

Chris Baker praised HWB, adding: "We are going from strength to strength.

"We have already exceeded our first quarter targets and Richard is still actively involved in advising and continuing to help us with our strategy for the future."

Mr Pirie, who was Hydralon's commercial director, could not be contacted for comment