THE region's only authorised distributor for the Swagelok Corporation has changed hands in a seven-figure deal.

Teesside Fluid System Technologies, formerly Teesside Valve and Fitting, has been sold by retiring owner John Walker to former employee Barry Waller.

The firm operates as the direct link to Swagelok, which provides solutions for fluid system requirements.

Mr Waller took the helm as managing director at the start of the year.

His predecessor formed the firm in 1981.

Teesside Fluid System Technologies employs 12 staff in the sales, service and distribution of fluid system components to customers in most industries including petrochemical, pharmaceutical and oil and gas.

Mr. Waller said: "With our expert knowledge and resources to develop new and exciting technologies, we can work with companies to meet the challenges of today and for the future."