COUNCILLORS have reaffirmed their support for a Bedale business centre committed to helping small local firms.

The former Hambleton and Richmondshire Business Enterprise Centre has received cash support from Hambleton District Council since it opened in 1987.

Now known as Business Solutions, Bedale, it is continuing to provide advice and training to new and established small businesses.

Economic development sub-committee chairman Peter Brown said: "Small businesses are vital to the health of the economy. This is particularly important in North Yorkshire where there is a high proportion of such businesses."

He said the agency had recently been overhauled to ensure its effectiveness in meeting the needs of clients.

The wide-ranging review of the centre led to the appointment of a new chief executive, a name change and more business advisors being brought in.

Coun Brown said: "There is a greater degree of dynamism within this organisation. More training is being provided and there is better contact with clients. All the signs are very encouraging.