A South Lakeland business that makes eye-catching statues is carving out a niche in the export market.

Lakeland Creations designs and casts sculptures ranging from two inch paperweights to life-size animals and children.

The Burton-in-Kendal firm wanted to dip its toe in the export market, but was unsure how to go about securing overseas orders.

With help from the government-backed UK Trade and Investment (UKT&I), which runs a Passport to Export Success programme of training, advice and support for firms wanting to trade internationally, Lakeland Creations has successfully broken into new markets.

Owner Sebastian Wylder made the most of support available, including tailor-made market research on overseas markets and a number of training courses aimed at the novice exporter. He also developed his website, www.lakelandcreations.

co.uk.

Now he is reaping the benefits and enjoying brisk business in the USA as well as selling products to countries including Australia, New Zealand and Japan.

Mr Wylder said the Passport to Export Success programme had been a big bonus and he praised the "huge help" he had received from his international trade advisor Andrew Fawcett, who also writes a monthly column on exporting for Business Gazette.

"As a one-man band, it is quite daunting to get to grips with international trade, but I would recommend the programme to other small or medium-sized businesses in the same position. The training courses and guidance offered have enabled me to hit the ground running."

Mr Wylder worked with his uncle, Jonathan Wylder, a well-known figure in the art industry, who taught him the mould-making and casting process.

He formed Lakeland Creations four years ago, and people can see products being made at its workshop at Deerslet Farm.

Local sculptors produce the clay originals working from his designs and Mr Wylder then moulds and casts the products in reconstituted stone, bronze resin and foundry bronze.

His statues are designed to develop a weathered appearance and are suitable for both interior and exterior use.

He hopes to expand the business in the United States, where a huge market for pet memorial statues is opening up.

Andrew Fawcett, from UK Trade and Investment's international trade team, based at Business Link for Cumbria, said Mr Wylder's business had gone from strength to strength over the last 12 months.

"While it is a challenge for any small business to develop markets overseas, there is extensive support available from UKT and I. By simply walking through the door of our offices, businesses can access a global network of services based in British embassies and consuls in 200 locations worldwide."

For more details, visit the website www.uktradeinvest.com .