A NORTH-EAST entrepreneur will launch his latest venture, Flatbread Cafe, this month.

Hossain Rezaei, formerly of Pride Valley Foods, in Seaham, County Durham, has set up the cafe in High Street, Newcastle, creating 15 jobs.

He plans to expand the business, dishing up North African and Iranian food, across the UK throughout next year.

Mr Rezaei, who was awarded an MBE in 1999 for services to the speciality bread industry, said: "It will be a dining cafe where local business people are welcome to come alone or to bring their clients for important business lunches in our more private secret lounge area.

"The North-East economy needs more entrepreneurs and achievers, as this is not only good for the economy, but employment and the region as a whole."

Director Justin Perkins said: "Flatbread Cafe has incorporated the concept of flatbread, but added flavours from across the world.

"The cafe is being launched in Newcastle because of the thriving business community and because Newcastle is a centre for cultural excellence."