A Crewe-based security firm is creating new jobs after winning a contract with Stoke City Council.

Long-established Alpha Omega has launched a recruitment drive as it expands its operation across the Potteries and works to protect local landmarks such as Hanley Bus Station, John Street car park and Smithfield business quarter.

The company, founded by former kickboxing champion Ken Lawton 22 years ago, provides mobile security, static guards, CCTV monitoring and key-holding services for a wide range of high-profile companies on Crewe Business Park and Gadbrook in Northwich as well as local authorities such as Cheshire East Council.

Since the business was founded in 1997, Alpha Omega has grown into a big concern and its door supervisors have been a familiar sight outside nightclubs such as Nakatcha, the Cheshire Cat and Harrisons in Nantwich.

It employs more than 300 security personnel and dozens of stewards who ensure the safety of visitors to big crowd-pullers such as the Royal Cheshire Show and Nantwich Show.

Mr Lawton said: "We are delighted to be working with Stoke-on-Trent City Council to look after some of the city's most iconic landmarks and destinations.

"Lockdown gave us empty buildings to protect and we are proud of how our team stepped up to the mark and remained vigilant and professional working round the clock."

Alpha Omega's role now includes carrying out Covid 19 risk assessments at all the sites where it operates and training employees in the latest measures to protect them and other people.

The health crisis has seen Alpha Omega officers deployed to ensure the smooth running of one-way systems at recycling centres and to support hotels caring for homeless people.

They have also been on guard at Northwood Stadium, Congleton Town Hall and Dimensions Leisure Centre.

Operations director Andy Taylor said: "We always look recruit from the community where we are working and offer full training. We constantly train to keep abreast of new threats and security challenges.

"At this time, when we all need to be alert, common-sense and having a good head in a difficult situation is key."

The company, founded on Lawton Street in Crewe, opened new headquarters on Crewe Business Park just before lockdown.

The official opening drew many business guests and celebrity friends including TV star Ross Kemp and boxing hero 'Big Joe' Egan.

Ross Kemp praised Alpha Omega for employing local people. He said: "I like the ethos of the company, its integrity and empowerment of local individuals."

The company has up to 30 full and part-time positions available.

For more information call 01270 258881 or visit their website.