A NORTH-EAST council has become the first in the country to launch an online tendering service allowing local businesses to secure contracts from across the world.

Sunderland City Council has launched the Tender Opportunities service to allow companies to access opportunities via the internet.

The council's business investment team worked with Newcastle software development company Nimis Limited to set-up the service.

It is offered free to businesses in the area, saving the usual £1,000 annual fee for similar services.

Cheryl Jones, of the business investment team, said: "This new service is a huge benefit to Sunderland businesses."

Tender Opportunities is available to companies with commercial premises, in the civil engineering, construction, creative, graphics, imaging, print and design, communication, professional services and scientific, medical and analytical sectors.

To register an interest, visit www.investinsunderland.co.uk