A SPECIALIST support programme that has already helped 20 ex-MG Rover workers start their own businesses has received a funding boost and is now on a major recruitment drive across the Bromsgrove, Droitwich and Redditch area.

Delivered by high-growth start-up initiative Mustard.uk.com, 'FastStart 2' is set to take its successful formula even further by offering a mix of developmental workshops and one-to-one advice to other automotive related redundancies in the region.

This means that individuals released by MG Rover, Jaguar, Peugeot and companies in the supply chain can now access a whole host of specialist support, which will help them turn existing skills and unique business ideas into commercial reality.

"What we are looking to do with 'FastStart 2' is to find potential entrepreneurs, who can transfer existing experience and talent into creating high growth firms, firms that will ultimately create jobs and add value to the local economy," explained Kul Sanghera, project director for Mustard.uk.com.

"The first programme proved an outstanding success, with 20 former Longbridge workers successfully using the support to launch their own companies, including hybrid engineering consultants 'tech2reality' and Steve Hall, who swapped the production line for a rapidly expanding Childcare business."

He continued: "In fact, the latter has already started a number of new clubs and is expecting to employ 100 people over the next twelve months."

All potential candidates need to do is register via the website which can be found at www.mustard.uk.com/faststart2 or contact the special hotline 0800 587 0721 for an initial interview.