A RECYCLING firm is looking to double in size after just two years in business.

Foreman Recycling, in Merrington Lane, Spennymoor, started business in November 1999 with just eight staff.

But by the end of this month the company plans to employ 36, and have increased the size of its premises from 38,000sq ft to 74,000sq ft, with the addition of another unit.

The business was established in November 1999, on part of the Electrolux complex, in Spennymoor.

It reduces disposal costs for companies and pays them money for their valuable waste.

Mr Foreman said: "The latest expansion comes on the back of further growth.

"We started with a staff of just eight, and by 2001 we were employing 28. The latest addition of eight new jobs will increase staff numbers to 36."

The business collects waste paper, textiles, glass and other products from companies and residential areas for recycling.

The company now recycles an average 500 tonnes of paper and cardboard a week.

Mr Foreman said: "We have come a long way in a short time.

"When we started we were recycling a couple of kilograms of paper a week, using two vehicles and a handful of staff.

"We are currently recycling more than 500 tonnes of waste a week, with a staff of 28 using five vehicles. Once the new members of staff start at the end of the month we will see those figures rise again.

"Recycling is one of the buzzwords of the moment, and more and more companies and people are trying to do their bit for the environment by recycling their waste materials."

Mr Foreman is also hoping that the new European Union directives on the recycling of white goods, such as fridges and freezers, will also boost the business. The company already deals with old and unwanted washing machines.

He said: "We are one of the only firms licensed to process old fridges and freezers on behalf of local councils.

"Councils can't just dump them in landfill sites. They have to be dealt with correctly, which is a boost for our business."