A BUSINESS specialist is forecasting a bright new year and future for two young entrepreneurs.

James Howell, 25, from Stokesley, North Yorkshire, and 27-year-old Ben Webster, from Saltburn, east Cleveland, have already taken on five members of staff for their fledgling It-Is International company, which specialises in creating innovative technologies and solutions for client companies.

Business Link high growth business advisor Andrew Marran said the duo, who began by mending broken technical instruments and programming computers in their bedrooms, had the potential to revolutionise the medical testing industry within five years.

He said: "Whilst the exact details of their latest product remain under wraps at the moment, the potential for this young business is huge. They have a dynamic and intelligent workforce that, I feel, will go far."

The pair joined forces to create Stokesley-based It-Is International in April last year. They launched the firm with help from the Business Link York and North Yorkshire Business Accelerator Network (BAN), which helps young, fast growing companies.

Mr Howell said: "When we set out, we had technical knowledge and expertise, but BAN has provided us with the support and direction we needed to make our ideas work commercially.

"Through the network we've received support from top lawyers, accountants and consultants, and have been introduced to people and schemes that have broadened our horizons and enabled us to realise our own potential. In addition to the projects that we have planned, a key aim is to expand our business here in Stokesley, to provide employment and add to the growth of the local economy.