DIVERSIFICATION is proving to be the way forward for an agricultural company in Weardale.

A subcontract selling and servicing tractors has given a lifeline to Gardiners Agricultural Engineering, in Frosterley.

The small business has been able to employ an additional person because of the contract from Zetor.

George Gardiner and Son Ltd was established in Wolsingham in 1779. Its legacy continues through great-grandson Jonathan, who set out on his own in 1999, after the death of his father marked the end of the Wolsingham plant.

Jonathan Gardiner started out as a welder and steel fabricator and as demand grew took on Colin Hall, 57.

The business has taken knocks through the foot and mouth crisis and closure of Blue Circle Cement in Eastgate. Since the closure of the works Jonathan has taken on fitter Craig Jameson, 28, who had his own garage in Wearhead until it closed last September last year.

Now Gardiners is planning an office and shop next to the works at The Batts, Frosterley. The company offers work and countrywear but the extension will enable a better display of goods.

Mr Gardiner said: "This new contract means that farmers from the Dale will be able to come here to have their tractors serviced instead of going to Yorkshire or Ponteland."