THE Swaledale Cheese Company is doubling the size of its operation following unprecedented demand for its range of hand-crafted cheeses.

The North Yorkshire company's plans include the construction of a product-viewing gallery, additional storage facilities, offices and further maturing rooms at its base in Richmond.

Site clearance has already begun. As part of the package, local landscaping and improved vehicle access are to be undertaken, which it is hoped will provide a more enhanced working environment, following their completion.

More jobs and products are some of the benefits that should follow.

The premises are part of a strategic 2001-marketing plan, aimed at doubling production capacity in order to meetdemand.

The Creamery has won many prizes for its 12-product range of Swaledale cheeses since its formation 14 years ago, and it hopes to develop further cheese varieties.

Produce offered by the creamery includes Swaledale cows, ewes, and goats milk cheeses.

Other products include a blue Swaledale, Richmond smoked, Old Peculier Swaledale along with a host of different varieties including its more recent Swaledale Italiana, which is carefully crafted from a blend of local cows milk, fresh basil and Italian sun- dried tomatoes.

Partner David Reed said: "We have decided to expand the existing facilities in order to accommodate more stock and to allow the natural extension of our already extensive Swaledale line-up.

"The new premises will enable the creamery to double its capacity nicely in time for the traditional Christmas rush."

The Swaledale Cheese Company handcrafts all its cheeses from a traditional farmhouse recipe that is believed to date back to the local monks who arrived in the Yorkshire Dales in the 11th Century.

The business is proud of the fact that it makes all its products using labour intensive techniques to produce one of the most mouthwatering range of cheeses available anywhere.

All cheeses are available through speciality retailers, regional markets, top quality restaurants and mail order.

Sold throughout Europe, the cheeses are popular with those who want a tasty alternative to the mass produced supermarket items.