MAY I congratulate Ian McLeod (CEO) and the workforce at Halfords Group on its superb preliminary end-of-year report.

The Washford-based company is clearly a major business that we in Redditch should all be proud of.

A strong economy is vital and I am pleased we have such prestigious companies and organisations such as Halfords, GKN and The Law Society based in the town.

With UK manufacturing in decline and a struggling retail sector, Halfords has proven UK companies can still operate competitively in an ever-increasing global economy.

As a small business owner, I recognise the value we contribute to the wealth of the country today as well.

I also commend Redditch Council's continued support it provides through the Greenlands and Rubicon Business Centres.

Both are huge assets to us and I would highly recommend anyone who is considering starting a new enterprise to visit them.

Paul Swansborough

Sutton Close

Winyates West