A NORTH-EAST factory has won an international business award.

British American Tobacco's UK and Ireland Operations business, which includes the Rothman's plant in Darlington, has been named Supplier of the Year by one of its major customers in the Far East.

The award, from BAT Taiwan, praises the employees for their commitment, dedication and teamwork to produce brands including Lucky Strike, 555 Smooth, Rothmans, Peter Stuyvesant, Benson Hedges, Winfield and Pall Mall.

UK and Ireland operations general manager Ken Davies said: "Winning the award is recognition of the drive and focus everyone has put into improving customer service, despite the uncertainty created by new EU regulations and difficulties in export markets as a whole.

"Along with the thanks we have received from many other customers, this award is a real achievement."

Last year, the group closed its operation in Peterlee, east Durham, but retained its facility in Darlington's McMullen Road.