DFDS Seaways has expanded its North-East operation with the development of a new groups department.

The North Shields team will work with the company's growing client-base in the coach and tour operator market, helping them find the best fares and packages to meet their needs.

Headed by Janet Donaldson, the six strong team has been chosen for its mix of abilities in the knowledge and travel sector.

Mrs Donaldson formerly worked for Braathens Airlines and has a thorough understanding of the Scandanavian market.

Joining Mrs Donaldson are Stuart Haigh, from Heaton, Ann Conway, from Gateshead, Lucy Foster, from Chapel House, Paula Winson, from Gateshead, and Mary Jobson, from Killingworth.

The groups department was previously based at the company's Harwich office. UK managing director John Crummie said: "The decision to move the function to Newcastle is a sign of the growing importance of our Newcastle route network to destinations in Europe, including Holland, Norway and Sweden."