BUILDING company Rok has acquired a plumbing, heating and electrical services company with operations in the North-East.

Avonside Services Group Limited, which was formed in 2003 following a management buyout, provides services to the construction industry and has an office in Billingham, near Stockton.

Rok plc has paid an undisclosed sum for Avonside, which last year recorded a turnover of £42m.

Avonside's directors will remain with the company and work alongside Rok, which has 54 offices across the UK including one in Newcastle and a depot in Middlesbrough.

Rok chief executive Garvis Snook said: "Avonside is a high quality business with very strong management and we are delighted that the team has decided to join Rok."