A CATERING organisation behind a North-East restaurant has opened a second venue in the region.

Jackson and O’Leary Catering Limited, run by Tom Jackson and Barry O’Leary, has expanded into West Park, in Darlington.

The duo, who are co-owners of Finbarr’s restaurant, in Durham City, have expanded the company’s operations, launching Finbarr’s at West Park, spending £70,000 to buy the assets of the former West Park Cafe.

Mr O’Leary said the move will retain the coffee shop’s ten staff members to change the venue into a restaurant.

He added: “This is an exciting time as we re-focus the business to take on a more contemporary food-led approach.

“This is a great opportunity for us to bring the quality of Finbarr’s Durham to Darlington, and I’m looking forward to welcoming customers old and new.”

The company appointed Durham law firm Swinburne Maddison to help conclude its Darlington deal.

The partnership follows a similar arrangement in 2009.

Back then, Swinburne acted on behalf of Mr O’Leary when he took over the lease of the ground floor of the Kingslodge Hotel, in Durham City, to launch Finbarr’s Restaurant.

Victoria Walton, partner at Swinburne, added: “We are delighted to have worked with Barry.

“His success to date is such that I am confident Finbarr’s at West Park will soon become a popular destination in Darlington.”