CONSULTANCY White Young Green (WYG) yesterday hailed its North-East base as playing a major role in its annual results.

WYG, which works with the built, natural and social environments, saw turnover rise 32 per cent to £220.6m in the year to June 30, and reported a 21 per cent rise in pre-tax profit to £13.4m.

The firm employs 65 people at its Newcastle office and has clients including regional development agency One NorthEast and banking company HSBC.

Earlier this year, the office, which provides services including engineering in the civil and structural, and mechanical and electrical sectors, appointed director Grahame Kelly.

Current projects include the £40m development of Newcastle City Library. WYG was recently appointed to the environmental and consents framework for the redevelopment of Blyth Power Station, in Northumberland.

Mr Kelly predicted more growth in the year ahead.

He said: "The pace is brisk in the Newcastle office and I am pleased with progress during the past financial year. We have implemented a new forward strategy that will see the Newcastle office team continuing to develop and grow."