A NEW media design company is proving big news with The New York Times, thanks to a two-year contract to develop the company's website.

Baryll Blue, based at the North East of England Business and Innovation Centre (BIC), in Sunderland, beat off strong competition in New York to win the contract to develop a database-driven Internet for employees of the New York Times Company.

Initially the site will be used by the company's top executives.

Eventually all employees will be brought on-line to include news, magazine and broadcast groups.

The New York Times contract is the latest in a long line of success for Baryll Blue.

Other contracts include work for American Express, Coca Cola and Ipsos.

Directors of the company are Christopher Westcott and John Openshaw.

Christopher said: "Businesses need to develop relationships with new media companies, like ours, that know the intricacies of the Internet."

He added: The BIC has provided the ideal environment for our start-up company. We have been able to tap into a range of business support services when we required them and potential clients have been impressed with the surroundings."

David Howell, BIC operations manager, said: "The role of the BIC is much more than that of a landlord.

"We act as a one-stop shop providing on-site companies with access to support whenever they require it."

Following its recent success, Baryll Blue is looking to take on more staff and move to new premises within the BIC