AN aromotherapist's products are reaching international audience with the support of Gateshead Council.

When Sue Finn, of Blaydon, decided to expand her business, Windflowers, she approached the council's economic development service for help.

Support with business planning, assistance from a specialist marketing advisor and the lease of a unit in the council's Blaydon Business Centre, have helped Windflowers establish itself within the complementary therapy market.

One area where Windflowers has enjoyed success has been in the development of Aromaclear, an aromatherapy formula for the treatment of headlice which Ms Finn now supplies to outlets in Ireland, Iceland and even New Zealand.

Councillor John McElroy, cabinet member for learning and culture at Gateshead Council, said: "The economic development service can help firms which don't have the expertise in-house to access advice on a range of business issues from specialist consultants."

Windflowers can be contacted on 0191-414 5101. For information about business and recruitment support services from Gateshead Council contact the economic development service on 0191-433 3000.