THE benefits of business grants on offer in Darlington are being highlighted after a successful year in which such support schemes have helped to create more than 450 jobs.

The extra employment was generated at 130 businesses, with the help of £175,000 in grants in the past year.

The money has been provided by Darlington Borough Council's financial incentives schemes, European Regional Development Fund and European Social Fund - supported programmes, Getting Started and Darlington Into Work.

Many of the financial boosts have been provided by the authority in partnership with Darlington Business Venture, Business Link Tees Valley, One NorthEast and the Wm Morrison Trust.

Grants and loans helped to lever private sector investments of £2.3m into buildings, equipment, staff and marketing, leading to the creation of 258 jobs.

Inward investments by seven companies created 108 jobs, while six businesses moved into larger premises in the town to accommodate 54 extra workers, while 12 new business start-ups contributed a further 32 opportunities for employment.

Projects supported by the authority included the attendance at trade exhibitions by Cascom Industrial and Kalivalson, information technology investment by Classic Signs and QA International Certifications, and inward investment by Whessoe Europe and Trendsetters Displays.

Bodycare, the national sun-tanning and beauty chain moved its headquarters from Nottingham to Darlington, setting up in Blackett Road and creating 42 jobs in the town.

The council is offering grant assistance towards new buildings, industrial estate improvements, investments in equipment and new or improved technology, as well as the implementation of new marketing strategies.

The Darlington Into Work Scheme provides wage subsidies to many businesses which employ and train unemployed people. Meanwhile, the Getting Started grants assist new businesses in transitional areas.

Another source of grants, the Falchion Fund, provides loans to encourage business development in the borough, and is jointly administered by the council and HSBC Bank.

Councillor David Lyonnette, the authority's cabinet member for economic regeneration, said: "It has been an encouraging year for job creation and inward investment.

"Money from grants and loans has enabled many small firms to expand and grow, while others have been able to relocate to Darlington.

"As a result, the town's economy is benefiting and we are helping to provide sustainable jobs for local people."

Businesses interested in finding out more can telephone (01325) 388682.