Here is a little more information to add to what Nicholas Simons wrote
(MMD 110731) about the piano-key and action manufacturer Herrburger
Brooks.

In 1920, Provincial Piano Actions Ltd was formed to manufacture piano
keys and actions in Long Eaton.  The technical expertise was provided
by Charles Astel, recruited from the Herrburger Brooks works in London.

In 1930, Provincial Piano Actions was taken over by Herrburger Brooks.
About 1933 they rationalised production by making the keys for both
pianos and organs, as well as piano hammers, in Long Eaton, while
making the actions in London.  Control of the company was acquired by
Kimball International of USA, after which the London factory was
closed.  By 1966 both keys and actions were being manufactured only in
Long Eaton.

Kimball sold the business in 1996 to the Hong Kong manufacturer which
soon became insolvent and Herrburger Brooks ceased production in 1998.
Management then bought the useful stock and equipment and started
production of keyboards and actions at a factory in Trowell, near
Nottingham.  This enterprise continued for several years supplying
actions and keyboards, including to Steinway in the USA.

Les Astel, son of Charles, continued to work in the business well into
his 80s, almost until his death in 2004.  Production ceased not long
after that.

Keith Reedman
Long Eaton, Derbyshire, England