WORLDWIDE computer systems firm Microsoft has turned to the North-East for the expertise to design and build a UK demonstration centre.

Sx3, in Boldon, near Sunderland, was chosen to produce the unit where Microsoft can show customers how to use its latest Office system software.

The development will be installed at the US company's UK headquarters in Reading, Berkshire.

Sx3 will be working to tight deadlines. A team of consultants and engineers from Sx3 Infrastructure Services is expected to complete the project by the end of next month.

Brian Fascoine, Sx3 director, said: "For a North-East company to be awarded this contract in the face of competition from right across the UK is a real boost for us and the region.

"We are a Microsoft certified partner and already work closely with them on the development, demonstration and early adoption of many of their software products.

"The fact that they are now recognising us as the most suitable partner to create a facility that will be central to their future pan-European product development shows the confidence they have in the broad range of services we provide."

Microsoft and Sx3 will work to design the centre for "information workers" who will be able to use the latest technology to access resources.

The centre will enable businesses to learn how they can benefit from the technology to solve specific challenges and enabling them to create a more productive workforce.

Stephanie Thorn, desktop product manger at Microsoft UK, said: "Technology is now a fundamental part of every business. It is absolutely right that we should create this centre to help businesses see the practical benefits of the technology available today."