Earlex, the Guildford-based manufacturer of steam wallpaper strippers and spray systems, celebrated its 20th birthday with a party at the Camberley Theatre on Friday June 13.
The guest list of nearly 200 staff included Earlex's UK staff as well the company's representatives from France, Italy, Spain, China and the USA, and guests from the company's bankers and auditors, and the charities it supports.

Earlex was set up in 1988 by md Julian Baseley, a former professional musician. "After I got married I felt I needed a proper job," he told DIY Week. Starting with a single model of wallpaper stripper, the company has now expanded to a full range of strippers, steam cleaners, spray systems, heat guns and vacuum cleaners, with turnover of more than £21m, and over 170 staff.

Entertainment at the party was provided by juggling troupe Feeding The Fish, magician Shahid Malik, and the Earlex 'house band' In Cahoots - formerly known as The Steamers. They include Sarah Hopper (purchasing department) on keyboard and vocals, Richard Price (engineering department) on bass, supply chain director Dean Barron on rhythm guitar, warehouse manager Dan Baseley on drums, maintenance engineer Mick Hamilton on lead guitar, and Julian Baseley himself on 12-string guitar and vocals.

"It went really well," said Mr Baseley. "It was an opportunity to say a big thank-you to our staff, and they all seemed to really appreciate that - and also to thank all those who have helped us outside the company."