A NORTH Yorkshire company has announced plans to double in size to cope with demand for its products.

Swaledale Cheese Company, at Richmond, is promising new jobs if it wins the council's blessing for expansion.

An extension would include a new viewing gallery, storage facilities, offices and rooms where the cheeses can mature.

Site clearance began earlier this month, although construction will not start until Richmondshire District Council planning department gives approval.

Partner, David Reed, said: "The new premises will enable the creamery to double its capacity nicely in time for the Christmas rush."

The company's products are made to recipes which are believed to date back to the monks who arrived in the dales in the 11th Century.

Customers include specialist retailers, restaurants and mail order firms, in the UK and Europe.

Established in 1987, the firm has won a number of top prizes, including two gold medals at the British Cheese Awards and, last year, a first, second and third place at the Bakewell Show