A SCHEME aimed at helping new and existing businesses in Pendle and other areas has reached the milestone of gaining its 100th client.

The Growing Business Project, which has an office in Nelson, offers a year's free support to firms in a bid to develop a healthy local economy.

The project is backed by European and Government cash through a partnership of public and private agencies. Clients in Pendle range from a cycle shop to a credit union and garden nursery.

Paul Hudson, manager of Growing Business, said: "Our 100th client is a significant milestone. We had not expected to hit this until well into next year. Reaching this now means that our advisors can spend even more time trying to assist clients."

The project also has offices in Keighley and Bradford and the 100th client was Bradford & District Food Information Trust, a voluntary group which helps farmers sell their produce directly to consumers.

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