AN IT company is poised to revolutionise how computer games are created after securing £60,000 in funding.

Chattering Pixels, in Middlesbrough, specialises in equipment used by other companies to create computer and video games.

The firm has received £60,000 through the Proof of Concept Fund, managed by investment management company NorthStar Equity Investors.

Developers Neil Holmes and Martin Fuller set up Chattering Pixels to establish a series of "code modules" that can be used to create games much quicker than previously possible.

Mr Holmes said: "The computer games industry is booming on Teesside and it is fantastic to have received this funding to help us take our place in this exciting growth industry in the area."

The Proof of Concept Fund, which is financed in part by regional development agency One NorthEast, is interested in any science, technology or knowledge-based proposition with strong commercial potential.

The fund recently supported Strange Agency, a spin-out company from the University of Teesside, to develop its products and services.

Managing director Clive Fencott said: "Most venture capital outfits are not keen to invest in early-stage technology propositions - that's why the Proof of Concept Fund from NorthStar Equity Investors has been so important."