ENTREPRENURIAL brothers Steven and Glen Watson have announced expansion plans with funding from Barclays.

The duo have operated the Interlink Express Middlesbrough franchise based at Teesside Industrial Estate for over 16 years, taking over the business which was previously run by their parents.

The brothers decided the time was right for expansion when the Gateshead franchise became available and with funding from Barclays, they bought it with a fleet of new vehicles. The Gateshead depot is located at Drum Industrial Estate, Birtley and was formerly run by David Watson, no relation to Steven or Glen.

Steven Watson said: “Taking over the Gateshead operation was a very proud day for the family and we’re delighted that we can continue with our growth plans to serve the North East. Operating in both the North and South of the region means we now have great coverage across the North East and we are planning to double our turnover as we continue to do business with new and existing customers.”

Interlink Express employs more than 40 staff between the two depots and runs a fleet of 17 vehicles.

Michael Hendry, business banking manager at Barclays put together the funding package for the deal. He said: “It’s great to see a business investing for the future, creating employment for the North- East and contributing to the local economy. Steve and Glen operate a forward thinking family business and as long standing customers, we were delighted to be able to support their growth plans. The future looks bright for this ambitious business.”