THE North-East economy is continuing to improve, with employment, investment and exports all increasing, according to a survey.

The latest quarterly economic survey, carried out on behalf of the North-East Chamber of Commerce by Economic Research Services and One NorthEast, records improvements in eight out of 11 indicators.

It finds that short-term business confidence rose by six per cent on the previous quarter after averaging minus two per cent since last year, which was backed by plans for increased investment.

In compiling the survey, which aims to provide a snapshot of performances and predict future trends, researchers questioned regional companies across all industry and business sectors.

John Irwin, president of the North-East Chamber of Commerce, said: "The previous survey was encouraging, but the latest news would seem to show another positive step in the right direction."

Dr John Bridge, chairman of One NorthEast, said: "Improving business confidence is still a vital ingredient in nurturing a more vibrant regional economy."