SCHOOL pupils were given an insight into one of Colchester’s oldest manufacturing companies during an insightful trip.

Youngsters headed to Woods Air Movement’s base in Axial Way, Colchester, to delve into the world of fans produced by the firm founded in the city in 1909.

It first began as a manufacturer of electric motors and later introduced a range of propeller fans in the 1920s.

And pupils from Colchester Royal Grammar School, East Bergholt High School, Kingswode Hoe School and Ormiston Sudbury Academy were provided with an expertly-led history lesson.

They were also told about Woods’ apprenticeship programs on offer every year and taken on a tour around the factory and laboratory.

Over the years, Woods evolved into the design and manufacture of axial fans, developing the first aerofoil axial blade design.

Woods Air Movement today offers one of the world’s largest ranges of certified axial fans.

The company, which is growing across the US and has a manufacturing base in India, produces more than 82,000 fans annually for the global market.

It had been known as Fläkt Woods since joining the FläktGroup in 2002, but last year decided to revert back to its original name as part of a major brand overhaul.