Horden-based Devilwear is already doing well in the business of designer clothing, sunglasses and accessories for the surf, street, ski and skate markets.

But there's more on the way for the web-based designer goods retailer which has recently undergone major expansion and taken new premises in the centre of Horden.

Devilwear now has a workforce of five with one more on the way before the end of the year.

Karl set up the business six years ago when he was 22. It began with £200 of his money. Now the business has property worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Devilwear is expanding into new clothing categories including ski wear and sports hardware such as skateboards and surfboards.

Karl would also love to open up retail stores when the economy improves. He said: "The economy is a real roller coaster ride at the moment but we will hopefully in the next year start to think about opening retail stores on the high street. Somewhere that is fairly busy, somewhere like Hartlepool or Middlesbrough."

Karl worked with EDBS retail advisor, Graham Tinkler to locate new premises.

Devilwear was also awarded a grant by EDBS to help cover the costs of bringing the property back to a suitable standard for business use.

"Extra space means we can now venture into new brands and product lines. We expect to reach the £1m turnover mark next year."