JOBS are being created on the buses as a large North-East operator centres part of its fleet at a new depot.

Go North East is creating 20 new jobs in Peterlee, County Durham, with potentially more on the way, as it expands its operations by moving to a new local operating base, at the end of May.

The new site, on Peterlee’s North West Industrial Estate, will become Go North East’s centre of operations for its Durham bus fleet and the company is keen to recruit local people to fill driver vacancies.

Qualified PCV drivers or those who would like to achieve the qualification are to be recruited, with a full package of training opportunities available to successful applicants.

Go North East divisional manager, Phil Southall, said: "We have a number of local people already transferring from other Go North East depots.

"But, we want more local people who really know the area to come forward for the jobs."

Go North East has joined in partnership with East Durham Community Transport to share facilities and working together on staff training.

Peter Huntley, Go North East managing director, said: "We’re really pleased with the way our services have taken off in Peterlee and east Durham and are keen to further strengthen our services here.

"Moving into the new base and recruiting local staff shows our continuing commitment to the area."

He said the company wants to work with the community and set up a ‘stakeholder board’, so local people can have a say shaping services.

Richard Startup, Durham County Council’s integrated transport manager, said: "It’s great news that Go North East is moving to a local base for some of their services and bringing with them much-needed job opportunities.

"The company’s high quality operations are an asset and we welcome their commitment to the county."

With more than 2,000 employees, Go North East is already one of the largest private sector employers in the region.

Application forms for the driver vacancies can be completed on-line via the company’s website, www.simplygo, and clicking the ‘vacancies’ button.

Further information and application packs are also available by ringing the Go North East recruitment team, on 0191-477 8888.