A South Cumbrian factory which exports baby formula worldwide has been named as one of the fastest growing companies in Europe by a national newspaper.

Kendal Nutricare has been recognised by the Financial Times as one of the 1000 fastest-growing companies in Europe for 2020.

The company produces Kendamil infant formula products, as well as Kendalife shakes for adults.

The FT1000, compiled with research company Statista, lists the European companies that achieved the highest compound annual growth rate in revenue between 2015 and 2018.

To make the list this year, companies require a minimum growth rate of 38.4 per cent compared with 37.7 per cent last year.

Kendal Nutricare chief executive Ross McMahon bought the farmer Heinz factory in 2015.

He said: “We are thrilled to be recognised as one of Europe’s fastest growing companies by the Financial Times.

"Kendal Nutricare strives to deliver scientifically superior nutrition for the entire family, while staying true to our values of traceable, premium ingredients and sustainable supply chains.

"To receive this award recognises the work done by our team and points to the exciting future ahead for our Kendamil and Kendalife brands.”

Kendamil is available in over 30 countries around the world and 30,000 stores, with Kendal Nutricare employing 120 people at its site on the Lake District Business Park.

In February the company was forced to make 18 staff redundant as part of a restructure of its packaging operations.