TWO Teesside entrepreneurs are aiming to create more than 70 jobs as they turn their timber products business into a £20m-a-year empire.

TimberMate was established in January by joiner Steve Rhucroft and Steve Gent, a former sales and marketing manager.

The company manufactures and sells a range of timber products for the home and garden, made with wood from sustainable forests.

It is one of only 12 manufacturing firms in the UK granted membership of the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC), an international organisation dedicated to promoting responsible manage- ment of the world's forests.

Mr Rhucroft said: "Many of the leading retailers have a commitment to use companies which are FSC accredited, so we have already captured a niche market and have the potential to attract some major players in the retail market."

The pair launched the business in Middlesbrough after five years of product research and marketing. They hope to create 72 jobs in the next 18 months and have a turnover of £20m within two years.

The range will be disabled-friendly and hard wearing.