AN accountant has launched an online service offering businesses their own personal payroll system.

Wagemail.co.uk is thought to be the first service of its kind in the UK, and is headed by Garry Burns, who used his 12 years in accounting, to design it.

Businesses enter their payroll number into the online Wagemail system, and all the necessary payroll information, including payslips and customised reports, are returned within 24 hours.

Mr Burns, of Waldridge Park, Chester-le-Street, said: "Wagemail is a completely revolutionary Internet payroll service, using latest technology to provide highly cost-effective, and totally secure benefits to all sizes of businesses.

"Research showed that many businesses would benefit from a quick and simple online payroll service.

"This system means businesses can keep a close check on staffing costs in a completely secure environment."