Last year record levels of cargo were handled at the municipally-owned Port of Sunderland last year; the port, which was 300 years old in 2017, recorded a 13% rise in freight tonnage passing through its docks when compared to 2016.
The volume of cargo handled has more than doubled since port director Matthew Hunt took control in 2010.
The port should receive a major boost by the opening of the Northern Spire bridge in the Spring, which will contribute to improved road connections in and out of the port.
Speaking about the results, Hunt said: “It’s been another fantastic year at Port of Sunderland and it’s great news for our customers too.
“We handle import and export volume on behalf of a wide basket of North East industrial concerns, and they have recognised that Sunderland, as a location, is ideal for them, to support their needs. As we continue to invest, they will continue to reap the benefits.”