CHARLTONS Estate Agents is recruiting staff following the growth of the business.

Charltons, which opened its first offices in Darlington nine years ago, has expanded to include branches in Richmond, Catterick Garrison and Barnard Castle.

Recruitment is under way for a variety of positions, including surveyors, sales negotiators, property managers and administrators.

Mike Charlton, who founded the business, said: "I am delighted to be actively recruiting at this time. It is not only testament to our hard work, but also highlights the sustained growth levels that we have experienced since opening our first Charltons office nine years ago.

"I take immense pride in my business and in the high quality of service that we offer our clients and potential clients.

"It is now of utmost importance for me to find the right people to fill the right places, and to continue to move Charltons forward throughout 2004."