A COMMERCIAL team has supported a new North-East fitness venture.

Swinburne Maddison, based in Durham City, has helped Joanne Bannatyne and business partner Lee Howe on JoLee Crossfit.

The duo have opened five branches in the last three months, creating about 50 new jobs, with outlets in Teesside, Darlington, Hartlepool, Team Valley and Belmont, near Durham City.

They also plan to set up another in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, this year.

Swinburne Maddison’s commercial team provided legal work, including the development of commercial lease agreements for each of the facilities and provision of shareholder agreements.

Victoria Walton, partner at Swinburne Maddison, said: “Joanne was looking for a local firm of commercial lawyers with a professional yet flexible approach that could be trusted to provide a wide range of advice and support as her business develops.

“We were delighted she selected us for the job and look forward to assisting her as demand grows.”

Ms Bannatyne added: “Swinburne Maddison’s team provided a high standard of advice and support throughout.

“We are starting 2014 with a very exciting time ahead of us as we continue to expand the business throughout the region.”