A NEW firm in Bromsgrove is working to forge links between UK and Brazilian businesses.

Across - Research & Translation specialises in supporting companies working on projects in the Brazilian and Portuguese markets.

Interpreter and research expert Iris Griffiths founded the firm, based in Pennine Road.

She said: "The idea of blending research with translation comes from my belief that those who work on international projects must have experience and first-hand knowledge of the language and culture in which they plan to invest.

"We provide all the data companies need about an area -- what the land is like, if workers will be available and if the site is suitable for their ideas.

"Across avoids the middlemen and agencies, linking professionals to professionals."

Iris founded Across earlier this year but has been working in the specialist field since 1997, helping courts, the police and social services.

The 32-year-old, who moved to Britain to live with her English husband, held many high profile market research posts in Brazil.

She said although her homeland is a third world country and notorious for its shaky economy, it has lots of potential and is popular with investors because of the favourable exchange rate.

"I've been dealing with people all over the UK since I launched and Across is very busy," she added.