WATERCOOLER manufacturer Ebac is investing in new vans to help roll out its Bottled Water Direct service.

The scheme, which delivers large bottles of spring water directly to North-East homes, was originally established as a £500,000 pilot scheme last year.

Now the Bishop Auckland company, which employs 350 people, is investing a further £400,000 to formally launch its Ebac Water Direct (EWD) business before the summer, with television advertising to support its marketing drive.

It has bought vans and employed two drivers to help with deliveries.

EWD gives customers the chance to have bottled spring water delivered to their homes on a pay-as-you-go or subscription basis.

John Elliott, chairman of Ebac, said: "Investment in new vans and drivers is necessary to meet the growing demand for healthy bottled water and to overcome the barriers some people face when it comes to getting the water home."