DIY bunglers rejoice. Britain's first firm specialising in the assembly of flat-pack furniture is about to be launched.

Frank Roche left his job as a printing firm executive after being persuaded by friend Peter Young that there was a gap in the market.

Former joiner Mr Young realised busy professionals just don't have time to pore over instruction leaflets or figure out where that left-over screw should fit.

The duo carried out market research outside B&Q and Ikea stores in the North-East and after encouraging responses they set up The Flat Pack Construction Company in County Durham.

They are now ready to visit homes and assemble wardrobes and cabinets that so often lead to fits of DIY rage.

The pair reckon there is sufficient demand to support an annual turnover of £100,000.

Mr Roche said: "Busy people don't want to put furniture together themselves and we believe we have found a niche in the market.

"Our company will appeal to busy professionals who just don't have time to build a wardrobe. And of course there are older people who may struggle to lift heavy packages and panels."

The company began trading last week and expect to earn £8,000 a month by the end of this year. Mr Roche said: "We have invested in the tools of the trade - a screwdriver - and we are ready to start work."