Middlesbrough Mayor Andy Preston has outlined ' life-changing career opportunities' n the region.

The Mayor officially opened Flexitallic UK's new North East Service Centre – saying the investment highlights a growing economic confidence in the area.

The 650 sq. facility at Tees Advanced Manufacturing Park (TeesAMP), Middlesbrough, enables Flexitallic to expand its capabilities to design and manufacture gaskets and static sealing solutions, and improve its stockholding and workshop facilities to meet increasing demand from customers in the region.

Read more: Frazer-Nash Consultancy moves to Centre Square in Middlesbrough

Andy Preston said: "This move by Flexitallic UK is part of a process that builds confidence in Middlesbrough, inspiring other businesses to follow suit to create the life- changing career opportunities this area needs.

"There are many exciting projects underway that will transform both the town and its economy, including the UK's largest hydrogen project.

"The presence of Flexitallic UK supports this transition."

The centre, which includes a training facility, has the region's largest stock of sealing solutions.

In addition to its gasket cutting service, it provides a local fast turn delivery service for North East clients operating across multiple sectors, including renewables, chemical, oil and gas and power generation.

Flexitallic's experienced team of joint integrity professionals is supported by an applications team that collaborates with clients on a range of specialist projects, including design reviews, gasket redesigns and industry compliance.

Sam Bradley, UK Sales Director at Flexitallic, said: "We have opened this much larger facility in Middlesbrough as a direct response to a growing demand from clients.

"The North East of England will play a significant role in the deployment of green energy technology on a global scale.

"It is important that Flexitallic plays its part in supporting industry to reduce its carbon footprint."