Plumbers and heating merchant Taps has opened a branch in York, employing five people.

It is the first time the north-east business has expanded outside the region, taking over a warehouse, trade counter and bathroom showroom for trade and the public at Yorvale Business Park.

Taps, a sister company of Thompson Building Centres, has opened eight stores since it was established in 2003.

Managing director Anne Ganley said: “It has always been a great ambition of mine to expand into Yorkshire. To finally be able to open our first Yorkshire branch in York is a great honour and I am extremely proud that Taps can now be associated with York’s rich history.”

Dave Harding, sales director of Taps, said: “York is a fantastic city and we firmly believe that Taps will be able to offer first class products and service to both trade customers and the general public.”

Lord Mayor Coun Sue Galloway opened the new branch yesterday.