STAFF at a North-East call centre are being given an alternative method of winding down and enjoying new treatments in the workplace.

Indian head massage, back and shoulder massage and osteopathy are just some of the new work-based treatments available to staff at the Orange Communications Centre, in Darlington.

Expert therapists deliver the individual treatment sessions, classes and workshops that are expected to be extended to other Orange centres in the future.

Staff can book themselves in for any of the treatments to fit around their shift patterns.

Centre head Karen Ingham said: "We are acutely aware that our people are our greatest asset.

"A healthy and motivated workforce is essential to delivering the highest levels of service to our customers.

"Working in communications centres can often be a pressured job and it is important to offer a range of benefits to help improve the health and well-being of our employees."

The programme follows an extensive pilot on June last year, which was welcomed by the Darlington staff.