A GLASS recycling firm aims to double turnover after breaking into new markets.

WRL Glass Media, in South Bank, near Middlesbrough, says it has increased exports to Europe to 1,000 tonnes after working with UK Trade and Investment (UKTI).

The company, which is part of Ward Recycling, makes recycled glass products for a number of uses, including swimming pool water filtration.

The majority of the glass it recycles comes from household kerbside collection schemes and commercial premises.

Its successes come as Export Week, which runs until Friday, April 11, aims to help companies increase overseas business.

WRL bosses signed up to UKTI’s Passport to Export scheme last year and also took part in visits to Spain, France and the Czech Republic.

Gareth Godwin, Ward Recycling managing director, said: “The support we’ve had from UKTI has been first class.

“We now have orders going to France, Germany, Portugal, Spain and Italy and have opened a small office in the Czech Republic.

“We topped 1,000 tonnes of glass recently, and aim to triple that in 2014 while doubling our projected £800,000 turnover in 2015.”

Stephen Muir, one of UKTI's international trade advisers, added: “WRL is a great example of how the North-East can successfully compete in the global race.”