A roofing firm based in Northern Ireland is targeting major growth by opening up business opportunities on the British mainland.
Thornton Roofing, which is based in Toombridge in County Antrim and already operates throughout Ireland, is seeking to create 50 new jobs over the next five years through an £8 million expansion into England and Scotland.
Managing director Stephen Thornton said the strong recovery of the construction sector meant now is an ideal time to extend its operations across the Irish sea.
He said: "Having experienced consistent growth in recent years we believe we are poised to enjoy the benefits of our growing reputation for roofing, cladding, small works, maintenance and architectural metal-works."
The company also plans to generate some construction jobs closer to home by moving to a new, larger headquarters building in Toombridge.
Mr Thornton said this would enable the firm to have more space for product research and development work.
