A KNOWSLEY specialist heating, plumbing and gas maintenance company has changed hands in a seven-figure acquisition by Manchester businessman Shaun Maclean.

Booth Mechanical Services, based in Knowsley Industrial Park, was established 40 years ago and employs 62 staff.

It achieved a £4.5m turnover last year and is the second acquisition in six months by Mr Maclean, who was former managing director of Manchester-based Apollo Heating which he set up in 1996 before selling to Spice plc, for more than £10m, in November, 2006.

He remained as group managing director until March this year, and in June he acquired a controlling share in Fylde-based Heatwise, which employs 25 staff.

His latest deal for Booth sees former joint owners Ron Hitchmough and Tony Hall leaving the business, although David Widdows will remain in his role as operations director.

Mr Maclean, who becomes Booth’s managing director, said: “I am delighted to be the new owner of a business with such a proud tradition as Booth Mechanical Services.

“I am especially pleased that David Widdows is staying with the business. We will continue to drive the business forward into a new era of opportunity and growth.”

He added: “It is a credit to the company that Booth has such a strong reputation. It is a reputation I am keen to maintain and enhance by drawing on my 25 years’ experience working at the highest level in the heating industry.

“My vision is that it will become a very exciting time for the employees and customers of both Booth Mechanical Services and Heatwise.”