A NORTH-EAST glazing company has been given £400,000 to continue its expansion which could create new jobs.

Fendor, in Washington, Wearside, received the money from FW Capital to develop its specialist production arm of the business.

The company, which began making products for the commercial and fire markets more than 30 years ago, has made glazing systems for the Baltic Centre, in Gateshead, Gateshead Council, supermarket chain Morrisons and Broadmoor high-security hospital.

It recently moved into a new 50,000sq ft factory and makes windows which can withstand hydrocarbon fires, barless custody windows and custody doors, and secure windows for the health industry.

Chris Duffy, Fendor managing director, said: “Our order book is healthy and most of our key markets are growing so there’s a great deal of potential for further expansion.

“We have invested heavily in research, development and testing over the last six years and now offer a range of steel and aluminium glazing systems and bespoke systems.

“Many of our customers require exact specifications and we can tailor our design and manufacturing service to suit their needs.

“Developing the specialist side of our business over the last six years has been the cornerstone of our expansion, particularly when the commercial glazing market has been so hard hit in the current economic climate.”

Michael Vassallo, investment executive who led the Fendor deal for FW Capital said: “Fendor’s long-term strategy is really paying off and it’s winning some lucrative new contracts in high-value sectors.

“This investment will help them equip their Washington base and fulfill their order book.”