A NORTH Yorkshire software firm is set to more than double its headcount following an investment which will allow it to commercialise a range of products for the mining industry.

Having provided bespoke solutions to the sector for more than 25 years, ProFound Mining is now developing a suite of software products.

The business, based in Hinderwell near Whitby, has secured equity linked investment from Finance Yorkshire, and will now employ three additional programmers and a sales manager to bring the products to market, taking the number of jobs at the company from three to seven.

ProFound Mining was founded by Peter and Helen Nathan and their offices are adjacent to Cleveland Potash Boulby Mine and in the area of the proposed York Potash Mine.

Mr Nathan said: "We are developing a whole range of applications which will change the way that mining companies deal with data.

"One of our applications enables not just mining companies but any company in the manufacturing, construction and quarrying industries to keep data that is highly personal to each of the people they employ."

ProFound Mining was advised on the deal with Finance Yorkshire by Steve Gledhill of SJG Consulting and by Asad Ali of Blacks Solicitors. Dr David Belford joins the company as Chairman.

Darren Morris, Finance Yorkshire Investment Manager, said: "Peter has brought years of experience in software applications to bear on the development of his business.

"Our investment will enable the company to move ahead with its commercialisation strategy which will allow the mining industry worldwide to benefit from modern software practices."