INFORMATION technology companies in the North-East are winning new business thanks to a drive to develop closer links with the South-East.

A marketing campaign run by Tyne and Wear Development Company is helping to boost the region's digital sector by generating links with business counterparts in the South.

The campaign, launched last year, is supported by Newcastle University.

Dr Gary Nestor, IT and informatics business development manager at Newcastle University, said: "The North-East is rightly regarded as a growing hotbed for IT talent. Our intention is to continue that development by stimulating links with the South-East, which is recognised as the UK's most active sub-economy."

"Major contracts will come further down the line, but the level of initial interest has been excellent."

Working from a database of more than 500 companies, Tyne and Wear Development Company has undertaken a year-long telemarketing campaign, targeting IT businesses in the region.

Nick Kemp, business development officer at Tyne and Wear Development Company, said: "The region's IT sector has grown considerably over the past decade and, if this pattern of growth is to continue, then it is paramount we look to strengthen links with businesses and markets outside the region."

Following the success of the campaign, Tyne and Wear Development Company is aiming to promote the region's IT sector farther afield.