A NORTH-East engineering business is helping to contribute to the success of Formula One driver Jenson Button.

XL edm, in Stockton, Teesside, has won a contract to supply engine parts for the BAR cars.

Since it started supplying BAR with both engine parts and some aerodynamic bodywork, in December, Button has twice finished third in the Formula One world championships.

Button recently said that he hoped secret new adjustments to BAR's Honda-powered cars would lead him to victory.

XL managing director Colin Thompson, who lives in Yarm, near Middlesbrough, said: "Yes, we do have a small part in that. But we can't disclose any details because it is secret.

"They are really pleased with the product we have been supplying to them.

"They switched to us because they had some problems with other suppliers on quality and delivery because they are very complex parts.

"They have personally thanked me for the quality of the stuff we have been supplying to them.

"It's a buzz for us to be involved in something like this."

Since relocating its manufacturing facility to Stockton last year, XL, which employs ten people, has more than doubled its production and is on target to break the £1m turnover during its current financial year.

Mr Thompson said they were planning to advertise for two engineers.

"We are getting so much work," he said. "It's really taken off.

"The jobs here are very high-class jobs, which require highly-qualified engineers. It is a good thing for the region."