Sony will create 40 new jobs at its manufacturing plant in Wales after it awarded the plant a contract to make XDcam high-definition camcorders.

The contract to make the tapeless technology kit was won against competition from other Sony sites around the world.

The company has also confirmed the Sony UK Technology Centre plant in Pencoed will be the location for the company's European service centre for digital cameras and camcorders.

Managing director Steve Dalton believes the success is a turning point for the company.

He said: “The fortunes of Sony Pencoed have been turned about. Our expansion is stimulating the local economy and also supporting success in other Welsh businesses. It also means our staff benefit from working with the latest technologies, gaining new skills.”

Sony currently employs 420 workers in Wales, and 24 other technology companies have set up home at the Sony Technology Village, employing 140 staff.

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