NEW jobs are being created as a result of the Bernstein Group's decision to establish a headquarters "super site" on the Wingates industrial estate in Westhoughton.

The company, which currently has other manufacturing facilities in Middleton, intends to switch the whole kitchen and bedroom furniture operation to Wingates by the end of August. At that point there will be 850 employees on the Westhoughton site.

A spokesperson said 77 employees had either transferred from Middleton to Westhoughton or were in the process of doing so.

All those affected had been offered extended trial periods to ensure that they were happy with the new working environment.

Disturbance allowances would be paid and in some cases employees with special needs were being provided with transport from their home to work every day.

The spokesperson said that in addition, 20 new positions had been filled and the company expected to recruit 25 more people over the next few months. Human Resources Director Bob Neale said: "The move will enable us to maximise efficiencies across our business, further improve customer service and help secure the future of the company.

"Being on one site will enable us to focus on improving employee skills and development in conjunction with local colleges and training organisations."

He added: "It will also allow us to take a bigger role in partnerships, both with the local community and with regional organisations."