A NEW wallpaper design business in Hartlepool hopes to take the DIY and motorbike worlds by storm.

Moto X Design, in Oxford Road, was set up in January by husband and wife Andrew and Susan Gaffney, after they were unable to find motorcross wallpaper for their sons, Gary and Reece.

After remembering that she had seen an artist who drew motorbikes on a regional TV news programme, Mrs Gaffney tracked down the artist, John Allen.

She left a number of designs with him, which he turned into images to appear on the wallpaper and soft furnishings.

The company is run from Mr and Mrs Gaffney's home, but with interest mounting from France, the US and Germany, as well as regional wholesalers and retailers, they are alreadylooking for larger premises.

The couple received help with starting the business from Andrea Miles, a micro-business advisor with Business Link Tees Valley.

Following a three-day decor exhibition in Germany, in January, Moto X Design contacted manufacturers Caledonia International, in Peterlee, and production has now begun.

The Auto Cycling Union has endorsed the business, allowing its logo to be printed on 100 different products.

Mrs Gaffney said: "Although it has been tremendously hard work, the feedback we have received from the exhibitions has been fantastic, as our designs are unique, and we are looking forward to expanding our operations."

Ms Miles said: "Susan and Andrew have discovered a niche in the home decor market and have created imaginative designs for children aged from six to 16.

"Business Link will continue to support them as they develop their business."