THE latest initiative being tested by a Warrington firm is literally smoke and mirrors - and it has secured a Government development grant.

Research into a galvanometer scanner by Nu Light Systems - which allows control of a laser beam to create pictures and special effects using smoke - has received nearly £12,000 from the Department of Trade and Industry.

The Atherton's Quay venture will be able design and build prototypes of the scanners, which would be a UK first.

This technology, also used in laser displays and industrial marking, could then be marketed worldwide by Nu Light.

Graphics can be created using the laser beam for display purposes.