THE North-East's longest established Internet firm is looking to double its workforce after securing more clients.

Darlington-based Intermedia has announced two companies - Siesta Travel and Niven Architects - that will make use of its web-based services.

These contracts, together with recent deals with Typhoon International, The Legal Warehouse and Tees Active, are worth more than £30,000. Intermedia has launched a rapid recruitment drive and is looking to double its 12-strong workforce.

Antony Lewis, who heads the web development team at Intermedia, said: "So far, 2005 has seen a period of immense growth for Intermedia Web Development. The two latest additions to our client portfolio are great examples of the range of projects we work on.

"All of this means that we need to attract a wide range of skilled professionals who can work on a variety of unusual projects.

"Intermedia is in the enviable position of being able to invest in new staff and attract some of the most technologically skilled employees in the country."

The team will be working with Siesta Travel, a coach and accommodation-only tour operator, on the upgrade of their site and current database.

Their work with Niven Architects will include the redesign of their website following a period of major re-branding and the renaming of the company.