A SECURITY firm is expanding after new contracts gave it fresh momentum.

Vinovium Associates, in Bishop Auckland, has created ten jobs after being hired by Auckland Castle Trust and its sister charity Eleven Arches.

However, bosses say the jobs, which include guarding Auckland Castle and the site of the Kynren open-air live show, could be followed by further posts soon.

Michael Hole, Vinovium operations director, said: “We have really found momentum since being taken on by Auckland Castle Trust and Eleven Arches.”

Vinovium was founded by former police officer Jim Loughran in 1998.

It employs 40 staff and holds security contracts across nine sites in County Durham, including Spennymoor, Shildon and Tow Law.

Jonathan Ruffer, chairman of Auckland Castle Trust and Eleven Arches, added: “It is very satisfying to work in partnership with a local company and to see individuals and organisations thrive.”