COMPANIES have found out how they can tap into £40bn UK space work.

The Satellite Applications Catapult Roadshow gave businesses an insight into how satellite data and technology could be used in new products.

Businesses heard from Catapult officials, as well as the North East Satellite Applications Centre of Excellence, based at NetPark, in Sedgefield, County Durham, which both help firms take ideas to market.

The UK space sector is expected to be worth £40bn by 2030, and FarmWatcherUK, based in Frosterley, Weardale, which is using technology to tackle rural crime, was one of the companies in attendance at the Newcastle-based conference to see how it could benefit.

Andrea Stephenson, director, is developing a horse tracking device, so owners can monitor the whereabouts of their animals, and said the Satellite Applications bodies have been a huge help.

She said: “We are developing new products and services underpinned by satellite GPS technology into a global market place from the North-East.

“The Catapult has provided tremendous support; it has given me a good platform to take my idea forward to help horse owners, who have emotional ties with their animals.

“If you have the innovation, desire and energy, the satellite sector has space for you.”

Stuart Martin, Satellite Applications Catapult chief executive, told The Northern Echo the region’s space-age technology is world-leading, adding both Business Durham, Durham County Council’s business division, and NetPark, have been extremely helpful in the drive.

He said: “We have got companies with some fantastic ideas and we are looking forward to helping them bring their ideas to market.

“It gives me great confidence the sector is flourishing here.”

John Hildreth, director of the NetPark centre of excellence, added: “The support offered by the Catapult and the centre of excellence means we are adding real economic value to the North-East.”