EVERYTHING is shipshape for glassware firm Fantasy Giftware.

The company, of Hebburn, South Tyneside, produces ships in bottles and decorative glassware products, which are selling by the boatload in the US.

The company has appointed a dedicated distribution agent in Los Angeles, Marc Grozinger.

Mr Grozinger, who was at the headquarters this week, said: "In the US, people are knocked out by the quality of the product and the fact it is produced over here makes a big difference.

"Most of the latest order has been for copies of the USS Constitution, which fought in the battle for independence with you guys."

Fantasy Gifts is planning to attend the Birmingham NEC international gift trade exhibition later this year, where it expects to win more international orders. It has won a promotional grant by South Tyneside Council's Economic Development Team to help fund the visit.

Gordon Thompson, export sales manager, said: "We are continuing to expand into new markets because the glass we produce is unique."