Teesside port operator PD Ports yesterday started trading on the official list of the London Stock Exchange.

The company, which operates UK ports including Teesport, was upgraded from the junior stock market - the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) - to the main list.

PD Ports plc was formed earlier this year following a takeover and began trading on AIM.

Graham Roberts, chief executive of PD Ports, said: "When we floated on AIM in July, we indicated that the company would move to the official list as soon as it was practicable and I am pleased that we have completed this process so swiftly.

"We believe that joining the official list will bring positive benefits for PD Ports, including raising the company's profile and improving the liquidity of shares as we continue to demonstrate the long-term growth and cash-generative characteristics of our business."

PD Ports said recently that plans were in hand to build a major import centre on Teesside with the creation of up to 200 jobs.