Having acquired Simpson Davits in 2000, the acquisition of Whittall means Cooney is now the sole manufacturer of davits and passarelles in Britain.

"This has given Cooneys a great opportunity, " said managing director James Cooney. "Whittall davits and passerelles are a wellrespected, quality brand. We can now look at beginning to integrate their best qualities into our current models resulting in an overall greater product. We believe the formation of the two companies will help position Cooney Marine as one of the world's leading davit manufacturers."