INTERNET company Britnett Web Services has established its sixth franchise this year as it pushes on with plans to take on 80 consultants by the end of the year.

The company, based in Barnard Castle, has expanded into areas including Essex and Bedfordshire, taking its total number of UK franchises to 21.

Managing director Paul Harper said: “Our growth is down to the fact that more and more small and mediumsized enterprises are realising the need to have an online presence, especially in the current climate.

“Our business model allows us to recruit franchisees across the country who are already specialists in their field and who can offer the best level of service on a local level while taking full advantage of the unique web products Britnett supplies.”