A Ryedale town is set for a jobs boost under expansion plans by a factory.

Pro-Pak, which is based at York Road Industrial estate in Malton, has submitted plans to move to new premises in the town and create more jobs.

David Longbotton, managing director of the firm, which produces chilled foods for supermarkets, said the jobs would be part of the company's plans to stay in the town.

"We are currently awaiting the outcome of a planning application which we have submitted to Ryedale District Council," he said.

"This is to move to a nearby site and build larger premises. I can't put a defi-nite figure on the number of jobs which will be created by the move but this will be significant."

Pro-Pak, which moved to Malton seven years ago, currently employs a staff of 140.

The announcement has come as welcome news for town leaders who have thrown their weight behind the company's plans.

At this week's meeting of Malton Town Council, councillors gave their thumbs-up.

Town Mayor Norris Binner urged councillors to give their full support to the company's plans.

"The managing director has told me he does want to stay in Malton and I think we should back them to the hilt," he said.

Councillor Frank Wiggle put forward a motion, which members supported, to write to Ryedale District Council planners asking them to support the firm's plans.