BUSINESS owners have welcomed the success of a scheme designed to bring jobs to Darlington.

The Targeted Assisted Employment project assesses the recruitment needs of local businesses and then matched vacancies to job-seekers from the Bank Top, Central, Lascelles, Lingfield, North Road and Northgate areas.

The initiative, run by Darlington Borough Council, also offers a wage subsidy to employers to help them develop new jobs and encourage investment in training for new workers.

Launched in May, the project has already attracted interest from more than 30 companies offering full-time jobs and has placed a number of people in posts.

One of the businesses to benefit was Paragon Rapid Technologies, which is involved in product prototyping.

Company director Phil Adamson said: "The assistance provided by Darlington Borough Council through this initiative has been an influence on our growth planning as a young company facing the many demands of a growing market."

SW Ironcraft used the project to take on an extra member of staff.

Owner Steven Welsh said: "Since starting my own business five years ago, I have often considered employing an additional person, but always concluded the start costs to be prohibitive.

"This assistance made the difference and will allow me to develop the business as I always wanted, but could not while working alone."

David Lyonette, the council's cabinet member for regeneration, said: "We are delighted to be able to assist these local businesses with their development programmes."

For more information on the project, telephone (01325) 388470.