"Last year was undoubtedly a difficult 12 months for house-builders, but Yelcon and its sister company Camstead bucked the trend in 2008 with a steady sales performance, despite the slowdown in the housing market," says Martin Rapley, Managing Director of the two companies.

Having celebrated its 57th anniversary in 2008 with warm thanks to staff past and present, Cambridgeshire-based Yelcon and Camstead Homes are now looking ahead with optimism to 2009.

Confidence has been boosted by developments like centro in Cambridge, where 151 student units were completed a week prior to Christmas with only eight units now remaining.

With demand also healthy at other developments around Cambridgeshire, Yelcon and Camstead Homes believe that 2008's encouraging sales figures have been helped by the company's close-knit structure, personalised approach and traditional build values.

Martin commented: "My father Raymond Rapley - 80 this year - started building in the Cambridgeshire area in 1952. Yelcon and Camstead Homes are preparing to launch their 250th development this year."

"It's fair to say that 2008 will not be remembered as a vintage year for house builders, but the fact that Yelcon and Camstead have been able to achieve consistent sales shows the company delivers a product that is still in demand even in severe downturns."

Financial Director, Terry Padian recently celebrated 40 years with the company, becoming a director in 1977 after qualifying as a chartered Management Accountant.

"We design every detail in-house with a management team that regularly visits each development, monitoring build progress and liaising with on-site sales staff to get visitor and resident feedback.

"As a result our customers get their voices heard by key decision makers, who can then respond effectively to their needs and preferences, ultimately to the benefit of both parties," explains Terry.

Pride in the job is another important factor, according to Sales and Marketing manager, Moira Scott. She said. "I think it speaks volumes that three of our directors are owners of homes built by Yelcon or Camstead.

"We pride ourselves in build quality and specification, incorporating as much as possible as standard, thereby reducing the need for extras. This approach has worked well for over 50 years - during the best of times and the worst of times for the housing market - and we're confident that it will continue to bring success in 2009, our 58th year."