Around 150 people attended the Ely-based Thorlabs annual summer party to commend staff for their dedication.

Ely Standard: Thorlabs summer party was a hoot for staff as they were commended for their hard workThorlabs summer party was a hoot for staff as they were commended for their hard work (Image: Archant)

The event showed appreciation of staff for the part they played in driving double digit business growth each year at the fibre optic manufacturing company.

Activities at the party included archery, a rodeo bull, petting zoo, bouncy castle, obstacle course, tug of war, face painting and a caricaturist.

A BBQ with a local menu was also on offer, including burgers from Bent & Cornwell, sausages from Edis of Ely, buns from Barkers Bakery, unlimited ice cream from Toni’s Ices, and a mobile ‘baravan’ pub.

Awards were also given out for several categories including Best Whistler, Little Ms/Mr Sunshine and Safest Worker.

Ely Standard: Thorlabs summer party was a hoot for staff as they were commended for their hard workThorlabs summer party was a hoot for staff as they were commended for their hard work (Image: Archant)

Mayor Mike Rouse, the guest of honour, shared words of gratitude to the staff for a job well done and acknowledged the growing anticipation for the completion of the new headquarters in Lancaster Way Business Park at the end of 2019.

Until then, the business continues to expand to more locations in Ely to accommodate a growth in its manufacturing operations.

The event took place on July 14 at Ely College.

Ely Standard: Thorlabs summer party was a hoot for staff as they were commended for their hard workThorlabs summer party was a hoot for staff as they were commended for their hard work (Image: Archant)

Ely Standard: Thorlabs summer party was a hoot for staff as they were commended for their hard workThorlabs summer party was a hoot for staff as they were commended for their hard work (Image: Archant)

Ely Standard: Thorlabs summer party was a hoot for staff as they were commended for their hard workThorlabs summer party was a hoot for staff as they were commended for their hard work (Image: Archant)