CRAFTSMANSHIP and talent came to the fore when a host of local companies transformed an out-of-use building into smart new offices.

No less than seven Herefordshire and Worcestershire firms worked almost around the clock to transform the building, on Warndon Business Park, into the new head offices of the two counties' Chamber of Commerce.

The former IBM building, next to the canal on Prescott Drive, has been totally refurbished to give the Chamber a state-of-the-art base.

Work on the offices, which are close to well-known companies Misys, Mazak and Bosch, included full window replacement, a new air conditioning and heating system throughout, new built-in storage, a new suspended ceiling and tailor-made offices surrounding the large central open-plan areas on both floors.

Plumbed-in water coolers, CCTV, fire alarm and security systems were also installed in the massive operation, which started in the planning stages just five months ago.

The companies involved in the transformation were Amber Projects (chartered building surveyor), Iris Interiors (main contractor), Border Energy (window contractor), Vale Office Interiors (office furniture), Bishop's Move (removers), ICG (data installation), SSS (fire alarm, CCTV and security), and Filter Pure (plumbing of water coolers).

The Chamber's chief executive Christine Jones said the new offices reflected the wealth of talent among the contractors, all of whom were Chamber members.

"The Chamber of Commerce is all about facilitating business and I am very happy to say that all the contractors working on the building were Chamber members," she said.

"All were local and our new premises - which everyone here loves - are a real testament to what we can offer in our two counties.

"The skill and craftsmanship are really impressive and the dedication and commitment to deadlines was remarkable. Some of the workers were working until one in the morning to ensure they were finished on time.

"We are grateful to everyone who worked on the project."