A SERIES of new jobs have been created in Darlington thanks to an offer of money from the Borough Council.

The jobs are in a variety of businesses which have been encouraged to locate and expand in the town through financial incentives.

In total 87 new jobs will be created in the next three years and £30,036 has been given to the businesses involved.

Among those involved in the initiative is Bodycare International, a sun tanning and beauty centre, on Blackett Road, which is aiming to create 42 new jobs when it expands.

Whessoe Europe Ltd is also hoping to create 23 jobs when it relocates from Newton Aycliffe to the town.

Coun David Lyonette said: "The council's economic regeneration team works with its partners and with employers to create jobs.

"This money will help new businesses relocate to Darlington and it will allow existing small and medium-sized businesses the opportunity to expand and grow and that means more new jobs for Darlington."

To be considered for money, the eight successful companies had to show that they would create new jobs and that their businesses would be a desirable addition to the town.

Other companies to get money included Recognition Marketing and PR, which is moving premises to Lingfield Point in the town and will create four new jobs.

Tuesday's announcement of the 87 new positions comes a week after the announcement of more new jobs in the town.

The Falchion Fund, run by the council, Darlington Business Venture and HSBC bank, has awarded £18,000 to two companies.

Shadow Tech UK Ltd of Darlington will use its £8,000 loan to expand and hopes to employ more people in the coming three years.

QA International Certification will create ten new jobs by the end of 2003 thanks to its loan of £10,000.