The new deal is the largest single contract the firm has ever been awarded and draws the company's centenary year to a record breaking close.

Said Howard Baggaley, Baggaley group chairman: "It has been a year to remember with celebrations from start to finish, we began the year with a launch breakfast to introduce our year-long centenary programme and ended with a major contract win and the publication of a special commemorative book describing the history of our business and the people who have helped it get where it is today."

The company, based on Melton Way, also saw success sponsoring Mansfield swimming sensations Sam Hynd and Rebecca Adlington in this year's Olympics, making the new contract to build a new Centre for National Sports Bodies at Loughborough University all the more fitting.

"At a time when business in Britain is as tough as it has ever been, it has been a pleasure and a privilege to celebrate our success in such a positive way," added Howard.