OMBERSLEY-based Fabriano Group has acquired two new businesses.

The group, which makes and supplies valves and fluid control equipment and systems for water distribution by large utilities, now has Roban Ductile Welding of Leicester and Simon Hartley Penstocks in its stable.

The new group has a combined annual turnover in excess of £14m.

Fabriano's management was advised on both acquisitions by Andrew Stilton and Florence Wilson, of law firm, Martinau Johnson.

"Fabriano sees its future as a major player in the European market and its strategic acquisitions will help it achieve this objective," said Mr Stilton.

"The global economy may be entering a slowdown but there is still the appetite for the right kind of deal."