A NEW report into the health of the county's economy has revealed a promising picture for the future.

The document shows Worcestershire has a growing population, the lowest unemployment rate since 1992, nearly 17,000 VAT-registered businesses and a growing economy.

Worcestershire County Council and the Chamber of Commerce Herefordshire and Worcestershire have produced the report, called the Worcestershire Economic Assessment 2000-2001.

It is an analysis of current trends and developments in the county's economy.

The results will be used for planning provision of local authorities such as Bromsgrove District Council, training providers, colleges, employers and may help to support bids for more funding.