A tree care business founded by a Canadian teacher and her Armagh-born husband has created six jobs in its first two years, supported by government-backed advice and funding.

Crosstrees Arboriculture, based in Tassagh, County Armagh, was started by Chloe and Robbie Faloon after they relocated from British Columbia. Chloe Faloon previously worked as a primary school teacher in the Vancouver area. Robbie Faloon, a native of Armagh, had trained and worked in arboriculture in Canada.

The company provides vegetation management, tree care and site clearance for utility, commercial and residential clients. Around 60 per cent of its work comes from utility contracts in the Republic of Ireland, with the remainder in Northern Ireland.

The business now employs six people and plans further recruitment and equipment investment. It accessed support through Go Succeed, a UK government-funded service delivered via all 11 Northern Ireland councils.

The service provided grant funding for equipment and mentoring on preparing for tender opportunities. Robbie Faloon said the mentoring gave them confidence and helped them understand growth pathways.

Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Councillor Mary O'Dowd, said the business showed how specialist skills and determination can create local employment.