ONE of the North-East's largest security firms has been taken over for an undisclosed sum.

Darlington-based Security Surveyors has been taken over by ADT Fire and Security, one of the world's biggest home security companies, with branches throughout the country.

The move will boost ADT's coverage of the North-East by supplementing existing offices in Stockton and Team Valley, Tyneside.

Security Surveyors became one of County Durham's largest security firms in 1993, when it bought out another Darlington company, Dickson Security.

The company has more than 30 years' experience in the industry and had built up a substantial portfolio of business and private customers.

Earlier this month, the group submitted plans to demolish its old offices in Grange Road, and replace it with a motorcycle showroom.

ADT is part of the Tyco International Group