A NORTH-EAST garden centre is to get a £1m new look that will create 25 jobs.

The upgraded Peter Barratts garden centre, in Stockton, Teesside, will include a 250-seater restaurant, new warehouse and a bigger indoor shop area, in a deal financed by Lloyds TSB Commercial.

The centre recorded 42 per cent growth in turnover last year and the development is seen as paving the way to continued success.

Kevin Maughan, senior relationship manager at Lloyds TSB Commercial, said: "It is excellent news for the region and for this business that the development will go ahead, and it is pleasing to be able to assist in the financial planning of such a business."