A VITAL 24-hour helpline has been set up by British Gas to help small businesses in Worcester deal with on-site emergencies.

The round-the-clock service is the first of its kind in the UK and it aims to aid businesses by getting an approved local contractor on-site within two hours.

The scope of the helpline covers a range of building services and aims to help British Gas business customers deal with problems affecting their premises.

"Companies never know when a disaster is going to strike," said Simon Wallwork, SME manager at British Gas.

"This service offers quick and easy access to an approved contractor at a competitive and pre-agreed price."

Water leaks, burst pipes, electrical failures, broken glass, roofing problems and damage caused by break-ins are just some of the dilemmas that can be addressed.

For information on the helpline call 0845 60 30 791.