INTERNET service provider Freeserve has opened a call centre in Middlesbrough and has jobs going for more than 100 people.

The centre is operated by Hartlepool firm Garlands and needs staff in customer services, technical support, sales and administration.

It opened this week and is recruiting through open days at the North-East Centre in Albert Road on Mondays and Fridays for three weeks.

"We are looking for people who will go that extra yard to make the difference and help our customers," said Victoria Robertshaw, Freeserve's managing director of customer service and relations.

"We have decided to set up on Teesside because of the focus on people skills that Garlands offer and their training is fantastic."

About 110 staff already work there but the company is recruiting more people to help develop their aims to expand in the broadband market and wants to use its Teesside centre as a base for its operat-ions.

Shifts patterns are flexible and the company says it offers a competitive and attractive pay structure for the various jobs on offer.

Garlands has links with the University of Teesside and offer part time work to undergraduates and student placements.