MANAGEMENT consultant John Glass is hoping to corner the railings market after discovering an opening while on a trip to the US.

He has set up Easi-Fit Railings, at Armstrong Industrial Estate, Washington, which he believes is the only railings company providing self-assembly flat packs in the UK.

The 33-year-old, who lives in Chester-le-Street with his wife, Claire, and five-year-old daughter, Lucinda, heard about the moulds for the railings while on holiday in the US during a conversation with their inventor, Ron Ayres, who, at the age of 70, was planning to sell the rights.

After returning to the UK, Mr Glass approached the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) at Sunderland Enterprise Park.

He said: "After talking to Ron, I was extremely excited about starting up this business enterprise and having worked in quality for over 16 years, I have accrued a range of valuable business skills.

"However, I needed quick and efficient advice on how to purchase the moulds for the railings so I could get the company started.

"The BIC offered me a range of support and helped me to get going with invaluable advice on grants and funding. As a result, we have hit the ground running and are already looking at expanding."

The company employs three staff and expects to create three jobs.