BUSINESS owners are being offered advice on how to protect their companies during the recession.

Lawyers, a chartered accountant and a business advisor joined forces to support and advise owners through the economic crisis at a seminar held at BHP Law, in Stockton, with more to be held tomorrow.

The experts also offered suggestions on how companies could position themselves ready for the upturn to make the most of the opportunities it might bring.

Jed Lester, a partner at Baines Jewitt chartered accountants in Stockton, advised revisiting business plans, budgets and forecasts and updating where necessary, and said business owners should know their peak borrowing requirements and identify clearly the movement of cash in and out of a business.

Mike Lakinski, a business development manager with Business and Enterprise North East, also advised that now is a good time to develop staff through training and that funding may be available.

The breakfast seminar, which lasts 45 minutes, is being repeated tomorrow at BHP Law, Kingfisher House, Preston Farm, Stockton, at 8.30am for a 9am start.

For further information and to book places, contact Rebecca Aiken-Saville, at BHP Law, on 01642-672770.