A MACHINE parts manufacturer in Tyne and Wear has created a new division in its company that could help create jobs in the region.

Birtley-based MST has invested more than £250,000 in creating its new MiniMax business, which it hopes will allow it to open up more potential markets and could lead to job creation in the coming months.

MiniMax will make similar products to its parent company - but will specialise in machinery weighing up to ten tonnes MST, which has a turnover of about £10m, has been operating in the region for more than 35 years, and is the UK's leading track and ground-engaging parts specialist. It has also distributed products to major development projects across the world.

Alex Roberts, commercial manager of the new MiniMax project, said: "We have vast expertise in the industry and want to capitalise on what we see as a big gap in the market.

"MiniMax is a young company, but one which is able to call on much wider experience and resources, including ten engineers spread throughout the country that can be with a customer at short notice."