A NEWLY independent computer graphics and visual effects company has signed a deal with the an Australian company to create a studio in `cyberspace'.

Manchester-based Red Vision, which has won several BAFTAs, has signed a deal with the Australian Centre for Digital Innovation (ACDI) to jointly create and operate Virtual Super Studio (VSS) International.

The collaboration aims to create a new facility which will allow both companies to share their workloads despite being on the opposite sides of the world. Earlier this month, Red Vision - which is behind ITV1's new satirical series Headcases - bought its TV division back, less than two years after it was sold to Inspired Gaming Group for around £20m.

Managing director David Mousley said: "We have 65 designers working for us here in Manchester, but this new deal will provide us with access to a further 55 designers who work for ACDI.

"This will mean that both organisations are able to take on bigger projects and production will become a 24-hour-a-day process."