Dock 10 has bought 422’s Manchester post-production and visual effects business from Creative and Technical Media Services (CMTS) in a 100% shareholding deal.

It is the second facility acquisition this year by Dock10; earlier this year, the MediaCityUK-based firm completed a deal for Manchester commercials VFX and post-production facility Edit 19.

The agreement for 422 includes all staff with facilities director Damien Lynch and client services director Gemma Ackerley both remaining with the business.

422 will remain in its existing premises in Peter Street, Manchester until the middle of 2017 when it will move to MediaCityUK.

Dock 10 chief executive Mark Senior said: “When combined with our existing post production and VFX business, this acquisition will make Dock 10 the clear leader outside London in both the TV and creative services markets.”

Following the deal CMTS will retain ownership of its Scottish 422 facility, which it will re-brand.

CMTS bought 422 Manchester in 2009 from a consortium led by its then management team.

422’s services cover creative audio, vfx and graphics, grade, animation and CG.

422’s credits include Pip Ahoy (CHF Entertainment for Channel 5) and Britain’s Deadliest Rail Disaster: Quintinshill (Finestripe for BBC4) as well as campaigns for Magnet Kitchens, John West and Aldi.