ONE of the North's leading information security specialists plans to become a top national and international player following a major cash injection from specialist IT investors.

Stockton-based Sapphire Technologies is set to create 40 jobs, allowing the company to build on its reputation as a market leader in the fields of information security and e-development. The firm, which currently employs 33, would not reveal the source of the investment.

The new growth will see Sapphire Technologies set up sales offices in Scotland and London, while retaining its technical services in the North-East. Also planned is investment in research and development, and expansion of Sapphire's complementary web development arm.

Managing director John Morrison said: "This is a fantastic boost for the company after a year in which our success has exceeded all expectations, and means that the future is extremely bright for Sapphire.

"The Internet landscape has been transformed during the last year with more businesses and individuals choosing to exploit its potential, but with this growth has come heightened awareness of security threats.

"Sapphire has become synonymous with Internet security in the North in a very short time. This extra investment will allow us to consolidate and to build an even greater reputation worldwide."

Stan Tatko, business development manager, said that new staff will work in a number of areas including sales, technical, administration and finance. The firm plans to recruit primarily from the North-East.