A NORTH-EAST inventor has achieved international recognition after wining the prestigious Saatchi and Saatchi Innovation in Communication Award in New York.

Darlington-based Peratech has won the award against stiff international competition for its development of a rubber-like, touch sensitive compound.Called Softswitch, the product can enable soft, flexible fabrics to replace conventional hard plastic keypads and switches.

Softswitch contains a touch-sensitive fabric that conducts more electricity the harder you press. Tiny metal specks in the material are covered in a plastic layer that lets electricity flow only when the plastic is distorted.

David Lussey, who invented the "smart" electricity conducting plastic, said: "We are thrilled at such an international accolade and it is a real boost for the future success of our company."

The award-winning development is on display at London's Science Museum, which features the world's first piano keyboard made out of textiles.

"With this keyboard you can roll it up and put it in your pocket," said Mr Lussey.

The plastic compound is put into a cloth, which has the drawing of a keyboard on it. By pressing the "keys" on the cloth, the musician sends signals to an attached amplifier.