THE Hambleton district just missed out on a top ten spot in the Top 50 SMEs with its most profitable business taking 11th place.

Thirsk-based Diagmed Healthcare specialises in endoscopy and diagnostic equipment, distributing world leading medical technology in the sector. Formed in September 1985, Diagmed has enjoyed sustained growth every year since, and last year reported pre-tax profits of £1.6 million off revenues totalling £11.8 million.

Employing a team of 37, Diagmed works to identify and represent unique and innovative product lines that benefit patients and medical staff, and was selected by Given Imaging Ltd as their agent to promote capsule endoscopy throughout the UK.

Another Hambleton appearance comes from Gallows Green Services, placed at number 25, with turnover of £15.7 million and pre-tax profits of £874,000.

Also based in Thirsk, the company trades as Cod Beck Blenders and C. B Contract Chemicals, and employs 100 staff to manufacture and supply products for major companies involved in the pharmaceutical, agricultural, agrochemical, horticultural and fine chemical industries.

Founded in 1988, the business operates from an eight acre site capable of blending powders and liquids, liquid adsorption, powder granulation, sieving, size separation, chemical drying, powder and liquid packing and small scale chemical reactions.

Completing a hat-trick for Thirsk is number 32 on the list - G. A Robson and Son.

The used tractors and agricultural machinery specialists made a pre-tax profit of £735,000 with just four members of staff generating turnover of £7.7 million.

York Press: