A Bangor-based engineering firm has won a deal to supply pump systems to French boatbuilder BJ Technologie.

The Belfast Telegraph reports that Munster Simms, which also trades as Whale Pumps, will supply bilge and shower waste pumps to the international sail boat manufacturer in what it describes as one of its biggest ever deals.

Managing director Patrick Hurst told the Telegraph that the deal was a "tremendous achievement" giving his business a solid base for the future.

The company, which is soon to move to new premises in Balloo, has been developing plumbing systems for the leisure industry more than 60 years and employs 148 people. Last year it announced a £3 million (€3.5 million) investment in research and development to increase sales beyond Northern Ireland.