A THIRD generation removals company helping people move across Europe is creating North-East jobs.

Pearson, based at Riverside Park, in Middlesbrough, says it is taking on drivers to meet demand.

The move comes after Pearson, founded in 1917 by Edwin Pearson, was taken over by Stephen Hayward.

The firm expects to recruit at least ten people in its expansion, with bosses targeting local workers.

Pearson, which employs nearly 100 people, operates an international fleet from its Middlesbrough base, where the business was set up, and also has a sales centre in Sutton Coldfield, in the West Midlands.

Frances Reed, Pearson’s managing director, said it was committed to maintaining, and building upon, its place as a European leader in its field.

She said: “I have spent many years with Pearson as accounts manager, general manager, director and former owner.

“That has allowed me to see the firm grow into one of Europe’s most successful removal companies, and we will continue to grow with the recruitment of talented local people in our area.

“This is an incredibly exciting period in the timeline of our company.

“Stephen has tremendous energy and is truly inspirational.

“Our team encompasses almost 100 staff and every employee is fully committed to driving the company forward under Stephen’s stewardship.”

Mr Hayward, who has held a number of senior roles within the delivery sector, including managing director of Palletline, said he was delighted with the Pearson deal.

He added: “This is a great business with terrific growth potential, based on delivering outstanding service to customers.

“I’m proud to be the new owner of a company moving towards its centenary year with youthful vigour.”

Operating a daily service across all major European cities, the firm is overseen by director Brian Pearson, who is the grandson of founder Edwin.

It is part of UniGroup Worldwide UTS, which consists of more than 70 of Europe's moving companies.