A VALLEYS electronics company has been praised by Wales’ first minister for leading the way through the economic downturn.

Axiom Manufacturing Services, in Newbridge, provides products for the medical, industrial, defence and aerospace sectors.

The company, which achieved record growth last month and employs 170 people, was visited by first minister Carwyn Jones and Islwyn MP Chris Evans earlier this week.

The politicians heard the company has forged links with local schools and community projects, as well as sourcing local products. Mr Jones said: “Axiom is a significant employer in the area and has strong links with the local community. Its success comes from its ability to adapt to changing circumstances and create a worldclass product.”

Mr Evans said Axiom was a “prime example” of a company taking full advantage of the facilities in Islwyn, such as good transport links, local talent and a diverse economy: “Despite all the doom and gloom you read in the press about the manufacturing industry, the success that Axiom is enjoying shows we are bucking the trend in Islwyn.”