A company that specialises in providing geological surveys for oil and gas giants has announced major expansion.

Bosses at Neftex based at Milton Park, near Didcot, say they will take on another 50 staff after winning a series of contracts worth millions of pounds.

Neftex employs more than 80 staff currently and is looking for graduates to join its specialist team with recruitment ongoing over the next three years.

Director Mike Simmons said: “We are delighted the petroleum and mining sector continues to invest in Neftex and our geoscience products that assist in the exploration for resources.

“This year has seen excellent growth in sales and we will use this income to further establish and expand our position in the market”.

The latest contract win for the firm is with the Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation worth several hundred thousand pounds and supported by United Kingdom Trade and Investment (UKTI).

Neftex was set up in 2001 and has grown rapidly to the point where it now has a multi-million pound turnover with clients including the world’s leading petroleum and mining companies.

Trade and Investment Minister Lord Green said: “I congratulate Neftex on its success in winning international contracts and planned growth in the UK to deliver this new business.

“This announcement is an excellent reflection of the UK’s world-class skills and innovation in geosciences and the energy sector.”