ONE of Teesside's most innovative technology firms has signed up to a mentoring scheme.

Pearson-Harper, of Billingham, is one of 20 companies across the UK teaming up with leading operators in the oil and gas industry to build business relationships.

The firm will be joined by a representative from BP Amoco, who will help the firm develop a strategic view of the future needs of the industry.

Pearson-Harper provides engineering, information management, and systems implementation services.

It employs 67 people in the region.

Alex Hayward, of Pearson-Harper, said: "This mentoring initiative is an important scheme and one we are delighted to be involved in, as it provides us with a real insight into the workings of the oil and gas industry."