A SMALL company with big ideas has invented a revolutionary fire escape.

QADS in Main Road, Goostrey, spent THREE YEARS and £300,000 developing a collapsible ladder.

"Many children die of smoke inhalation and I felt we had to design a product that saved lives," said partner Alfred Slack, who lives in the village.

QADS shelved four other projects to concentrate on developing the aluminium ladder which fits to the outside of a house.

Mr Slack said four designers had spent a lot of time and money on the design, but it was worth it.

"If the product saves just one life, then it will be worth the £300,000," he said.

In an emergency, the ladder - which is stored in a cabinet - is released.

The aluminium, non-slip tread plates - supported by four straps and capable of supporting 500kg - then stiffen as the ladder is used.

Mr Slack said initial worries included how to make the ladder criminal proof.

"With some of the products on the market I think you would receive a Christmas card from every burglar in town," said Mr Slack.

"Our cabinet can only be unlocked from above and so prevents intruders using it."

The QADS Safety Escape System, costing £350 plus VAT, is now available by calling 01477 534294.

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