Brighton-based IT and electronics company Amplicon Liveline has appointed a new managing director following the shock departure of Mike Wood.

Richard Edwards, 50, from Steyning, joined the firm yesterday and aims to produce substantial growth at the company over the next few years.

Mr Wood, 46, from Lewes, stepped down three weeks ago for unknown reasons.

The new man's other main objectives are to promote new products and develop new business opportunities.

Mr Edwards is well known in the Brighton business community.

He was managing director of Hosiden Besson for 14 years and has established links with Sussex Enterprise.

He has recently been helping to restructure a company in Surrey.

Mr Wood, 46, increased turnover by 12 per cent in his two-year tenure as managing director.

Speaking to The Argus shortly before his departure, Mr Wood said he expected to remain at Amplicon for many years.

He said: "I will be here until I retire.

"We have ambitious plans but we probably won't ever be a £100 million company - not in my lifetime anyway."

He outlined his vision for the company, explaining how he would like to sell his part of the business having been part of the management buying team.

He said: "I would like to retire in ten years' time."

Mr Wood helped Amplicon develop its own brand of UK-made industrial computer systems, which boosted sales and profits during a manufacturing slump.

The company has given no reason for his departure but described it as amicable.

Friday October 24, 2003