ENTREPRENEURS and business owners from around Wychavon saw the stories of their success in print when a new book promoting the growth of the district was launched.

Grow in Wychavon, a book telling the stories of 52 successful businesses in the district, was revealed at an event hosted at the Regal Cinema in Evesham on Friday.

Featuring familiar faces from around the area the book, which has been developed by the district council, is believed to be the first of its kind and brings together inspirational stories, business lessons and why the area is such a great place to do business.

Stephen Cooper, who owns SE Cooper Ironworks in Pershore, explained why his appearance in the book was important to him.

"In 2008 the recession hit us badly," he said. "Wychavon have been brilliant. We have struggled. When I asked it they would help they did and we were able to pay our business rates over 12 months instead of ten.

"To be chosen by our council and to be recognised as a top 52 business is absolutely brilliant."

Vale Fresco directors Nick and Vito Mauro, who run a growing business with their cousins, Joe and Vito Pilade, have also featured in the book and said they hope it will promote the business to supermarkets wanting to buy local.

Chairman of the council, councillor Gerry O'Donnell, said he too was pleased to promote the area and the businesses in it.

"When I became chairman I said I wanted to shine a light on smaller businesses in Wychavon. When the book was revealed I was delighted because it does what I wanted to do far better than I could've imagined."

Speaking at the event, Sir Peter Luff MP, added: “There is so much on offer here in Wychavon. The book boils it down very succinctly to five key features central location, countryside, culture, competent workforce and a great council.”

For more information on the book visit growinwychavon.co.uk or buy a copy from Pershore Civic Centre, Droitwich Library or the Evesham Community Contact Centre for £9.95.