WEST Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has welcomed Government measures which have helped thousands of small businesses to grow across the UK.

Start-up loans are available for people who want to set up their own business and the Government has made more than £100m available to support would-be entrepreneurs. So far 30 businesses in West Worcestershire have benefited from start-up loans worth nearly £120,000.

Mrs Baldwin said: "Small business growth is at the heart of the Government’s long-term economic plan and new start-ups create essential new employment opportunities. Several measures have been introduced to help local entrepreneurs including £2,000 off national insurance bills, a reduction in red tape, clearer rules to help businesses set up at home and many small businesses now pay no business rates at all.

“I would urge anyone who is thinking about setting up a small business to research what help is out there from central and local government sources. As the economy recovers, it is a great time for budding entrepreneurs to take the plunge and become their own boss.”