FINE food retail brand Deli At, which specialises in selling regional produce, is opening its second shop in the region, to coincide with its fifth anniversary.

David Urwin, founder and owner of the company, is growing his brand, which offers local and organic products from specialist suppliers in the North-East.

His original shop, Deli At Darras, has built up a loyal following in Darras Hall and Ponteland, near Newcastle, and across the North-East, since it opened in 2002.

A second shop will open in Whitley Bay next month, creating eight new jobs. The store will focus on regional produce as well as imported olives, oils and vinegars.

Plans are in place for a third shop next year. The expansion has also prompted a re-brand, bringing the chain under one umbrella.

Mr Urwin, a member of the Guild of Fine Food retailers, said: "With Deli At Darras now well established, the time is right to expand. Whitley Bay is the perfect location."

Deli At's suppliers, include Northumbria Organic Meat, Moorhouse Farm, Doddington Dairy and the Northumberland Cheese Company.