A NORTH-EAST port has broadened its horizons after welcoming a vessel carrying construction equipment.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics (WWL), a global shipping and factory-to-dealer firm, delivered a shipment to the Port of Tyne from Asia.

Bosses say the port could be added as a regular stop for WWL on its Asia to Europe service if demand remains high.

Steven Harrison, the port’s chief operating officer, said: “This has been introduced to meet the demands of plant and heavy equipment makers who need to move their cargo via the port.

“It also shows future possibilities of WWL providing flexibility and solutions for companies wishing to trade directly from the North-East to various overseas markets.”

Paul Reeves, WWL UK managing director, added: “WWL’s regular service from Asia to Europe via the Suez and Panama canals is now enhanced by a direct vessel calling to the Port of Tyne.”

The port, in South Shields, South Tyneside, is already known for overseeing deliveries for Sunderland car maker Nissan, wax jacket maker Barbour, and tea firm Tetley, which has a factory in Eaglescliffe, near Stockton.

It previously announced a new container shipping service to Russia, with the Seago Line operating two vessels on an eight-day service between the North-East and St Petersburg.