A GROWING Golborne business is seeking to recruit 100 full time sales people. Direct Line Energy is based on the enterprise park created on the site of the former Golborne colliery. The company, which was started three years ago by Wigan-born managing director Chris Astley, operates as a utility brokerage to pilot domestic and commercial customers through the current competition process.

From February 27 they will be able to buy their gas from various licensed operators and move away from British Gas if they wish.

DLE, which started with five people, is increasing the existing sales force from 50 to 150 after securing an important contract five months ago to sell NORWEB's Energi brand.

It involves both doorstep and telephone sales in an area which includes Bolton.

Marketing Manager Kevin Wash said today that realistic on-target earnings were up to £30,000 a year.

DLE will eventually be able to offer savings to both the domestic and commercial marketplace on all utilities - gas, telephone, electricity and water.

Mr Astley said: "Obviously the closure of the pit meant lost jobs for local people, so it feels marvellous to be able to put something back into the community and our priority is to employ local people."

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