A MANUFACTURER of conservatory roofs will create ten jobs as it looks to expand its operations across the North-East.

Quality Roofing Systems (QRS), which relocated from North Yorkshire to £900,000 premises in Hartlepool last year, plans to set up partnering operations with local conservatory suppliers in the region.

The firm, which manufacturers and supplies about 50 bespoke conservatory roofs every week, has seen strong sales in the south of England.

Managing director David Buttery said he intends to strengthen links in the North-East and will take on ten staff over the next three months.

QRS has increased its staff from 30 to 43 since it moved from Seamer, near Stokesley, to 16,000sq ft premises at Queens Meadow Business Park, in Hartlepool, with funding from development agency One NorthEast.

"The combination of the move and the need to attract new staff to help grow the company has meant we have been very active in recruiting local people since we moved to Hartlepool," said Mr Buttery.

"Their skill and commitment has been vital in helping us grow and we are looking forward to continuing this growth throughout 2006."