A TEESDALE company is celebrating a year in business with an expansion that will see it double in size.

Wellybix, which is run by Alison Walton from her home in Romaldkirk, has secured a contract with Westmorland Group to sell her handmade dog treats in outlets from Penrith to Gloucestershire.

The company, named after Mrs Walton’s Jack Russell, three year old Welly, started after Mrs Walton gave up her job as a pastry chef in a local hotel after 12 years.

Mrs Walton now works with a veterinary laboratory to ensure complete nutritional standards and quality.

She said: “My business had its grounding last Christmas when I decided to bake some biscuits for my own dog, Welly.

“They worked really well and I began supplying the local hotel and holiday cottages with biscuits to give to clients who brought their pets on holiday.

“Wellybix has grown really quickly and I have now taken on another local baker and agreed to supply five outlets in the Westmorland Group.

“It has also taken over a whole room in my house, but the family – my husband and two children – are right behind me, and Welly continues to do his bit by ensuring baking standards are met - he is my chief taster.”

For more information visit wellybix.co.uk