Barclay's business customers in Redcar can now promote their products from inside their local branch as part of a new incentive launched this week.

Once a month there will be a different business marketing themselves from inside the bank where they will get the chance to display and sell their goods which will include a Mexican food business and a Florist.

The branch hopes to replicate the pilot scheme across other branches throughout the region with East Cleveland being next on the agenda.

The first business in the spotlight was 54 year old businessman David Stone who two weeks ago launched his business 'personalised mugs n more'.

After being out of work for for over two years and feeling that his age was against him, the former mobile book seller decided to set up his new venture.

"I was unemployed for two years", he said, "and I'm in my 50s. I found there was nothing out there - so I decided to set this business up. I've had some good feedback from both businesses and the public."

The new incentive was started by Business manager Bridie Summersgill and branch Manager Sue Speak, who said: "We just wanted to support the local community and improve our image. But i't's not all bad, it can be good as well."

Bridie Summersgill added: "The business start up market is hugely important to the local economy, and as champions of local business we've been supporting new start ups with the opportunity to use our banking hall to promote their ideas.

"This is a very local initiative which has been extremely popular and we're delighted that we've been able to help local businesses with their marketing at an early and crucial stage in their development."

Mr Stone also personalises mouse mats, surname history certificates, gift items, jig saws, clocks, teddies which can all be seen on his website: www.personalised-mugs-n-more.co.uk