CAR part suppliers, Tallent Engineering, has been boosted by the addition of a number of staff at its North-East base.

The firm, which employs 900 people, has seen an upturn in its fortunes after an uncertain six months in the car supplies market.

The Newton Aycliffe company, which makes components for the automotive industry, has taken on 60 temporary staff in the midst of a turbulent year.

Earlier this year Tallent launched a "thorough" review of its operations in a bid to remain competitive.

Some 20 per cent of the firm's turnover relies on Rover, and bosses are still awaiting crucial manufacturing schedules from the car maker rescued by the Phoenix Consortium.

But the future is still uncertain for the firm according to the Amalgamated Engineering and Electrical Union (AEEU).

Gerry Hunter of the AEEU said: "As far as we are aware the company took on the new staff several weeks ago, and they are still working there now. Obviously we welcome any good news coming out of Tallent but there is still a great deal of uncertainty amongst staff at the firm.

"The dark clouds remain at the factory, and we believe the company is close to announcing details of future production."