A BUILDERS' merchant has created more than 20 North-East jobs at a new branch in the region.

MKM Building Supplies has taken on 23 workers at its outlet on Dragonville Industrial Park, Durham City.

It means MKM now has seven outlets in the region, including branches in Stockton, Darlington and Hartlepool.

Paul Brooks, joint branch director, said: “The company has built its reputation on high levels of customer service and that has allowed us to expand rapidly and build a solid brand, particularly in the North-East.

“We are expecting the Durham branch to trade well because it is well known around here.”

David Kilburn, MKM founder and executive chairman, said he was proud to create news jobs.

He said: “The North-East is a fantastic area with warm and friendly people.

“It is an important market for us and one we are proud to be investing in.”