It's a messy business, but somebody's got to do it. An Ilkley-based firm is moving into a new niche market - the specialised business of 'trauma cleaning'.

So far, Verminix Solutions Ltd, which has now established offices around Yorkshire, has dealt with environmental services such as pest control, graffiti removal and the removal of syringes and needles.

Now the company wants to expand into the grizzly business of clearing-up murder scenes. The work will involve the disposal of items such as carpets, furniture and bedding - which can often become infected if close to a dead body - through incineration.

Director Andrew Nicholson said their technicians' experience and expertise in the field enabled them to offer a professional and sympathetic service in difficult circumstances.

The move comes just two years after Mr Nicholson formed the business with Adrian Gough, the brother of Yorkshire and England cricket star Darren.

Since setting-up in Ilkley, the firm has trebled its turnover and opened offices in Leeds and Barnsley.

"We have gone from strength to strength," said Mr Nicholson. "But we don't just want to concentrate on the standard business of pest control. We believe we have now found a niche market.

"There are no major businesses out there which are doing this kind of trauma scene work. I am hopeful the business will start coming in soon.

"There is an increasing number of deaths through homicide and suicide and somebody has to clean up after them."

The firm had contacted local councils, police and ambulance services and already had had a good response, said Mr Nicholson.