BAYDALE Architectural Systems is set to boost its workforce by at least 20 after winning a contract to install made-to-measure windows for the Scottish Parliament Building in Edinburgh.

The Newton Aycliffe firm, which currently employs around 65 staff, has won the £2.5m contract, the biggest single order in its history.

An extra 10,00sq ft of factory space has been added to Baydale's premises in order to accommodate the extra work.

Baydale managing director, Jon Smith, said: "It's a great opportunity to be involved in such a prestigious building project.

"The Scottish Parliament contract is excellent news for the company and the workforce at Newton Aycliffe. It will put us on the map."

He added: "The majority of our staff live in the surrounding area, so it is excellent news for the local jobs front."

The contract involved Baydale manufacturing 128 blast proof windows for the Parliament building.

The windows incorporate a steel-framed structure which projects from the building reflecting the Scottish national emblem of the thistle.

The contract follows other work in Scotland and Ireland, for the National Museum and National Gallery respectively.