By: Chris Tighe

Snow, ice and sub-zero temperatures all over the northern hemisphere - it is a great winter for Kilfrost. One-third of the de-icing and anti-icing fluids that aircraft worldwide must use to fly safely in cold weather are made by this small, privately owned family business. The trade-secret ingredients that have made Kilfrost a renowned brand with sales to more than 50 countries in five continents - "the magic pixie dust" as Gary Lydiate, chief executive, describes this crucial intellectual property - are made solely in a riverside factory at the end of a country lane in the peaceful Northumberland town of Haltwhistle.

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