AN aerial video production and film equipment company is targeting further growth after receiving help with its expansion plans.

Egg Air has been supported by a grant arranged through Tees Valley Business Compass.

Bosses say the business, part of Xcyte Media Limited, received £2,805, which has gone towards the development of two new websites to advertise the company’s services.

The firm uses drones to create aerial photographs and video, and was founded in 2002 by Paul Everett.

Employing three people at its premises in Coulby Newham, near Middlesbrough, officials added it was one of the first 200 businesses in the UK licensed to use aerial drones commercially.

Its grant was made from the Tees Valley Growth Fund, which supports businesses growth to create jobs, and Mr Everett spoke to consultant Shak Asghar.

He said: “When I met with Tees Valley Business Compass, I found they immediately understood the needs of my business and what we are trying to achieve.

“The use of drones in commercial photography and videography is a growth industry, and one where professional and qualified practitioners spend a lot of time staying ahead of the technological curve.

“The support we have received has allowed us to create new avenues for sales, while concentrating on our core business activities.”

Mr Asghar said he was delighted to have been in a position to help Egg, whose services include drone photographs, videos of weddings and production of aerial footage of crime scenes for use in court.

“When we met Paul, we could immediately see he had the skills, equipment and drive to grow his business”, added Mr Asghar.