A hairdresser has set up a new club for businesses which he hopes will help firms in the area prosper.

Wayne Anthony, 38, who owns Wibsey-based hairdressing salon Wayne Anthony had the idea to set up The Business Discount Club six months ago.

He said: "Over the years I have built up masses of contacts through hairdressing and talking to clients.

"I used to get calls all the time from people asking me if I could put them in touch with contacts, I became like the Yellow Pages!.

"I thought, why don't I set up something which businesses could use so small firms could prosper from larger businesses."

The Business Discount Club, which officially launched four weeks ago, already has 81 members.

Mr Anthony added: "I would expect membership to double at least over the next couple of months and hope eventually to see a Business Discount Club operating in every region of the country."

The club, which has its own website www.thebusinessdiscountclub.co.uk, has already signed up firms including Odsal Top-based Angel Mobile Phones and Inkerman Street sign makers PRS.

Membership is free, though Mr Anthony said he will be introducing a £60 membership charge in the near future.

He said: ''The idea is to get as many good companies on board as possible, they then get put on the website and offer each other discounted business rates and even practical advice.

"It's not about making money, it's about bringing people together in the West Yorkshire area. The response so far has been awesome, it's been really nice as all the people I have spoken to have said its a fantastic, yet simple idea."

Mr Anthony is also hoping to use his success in business to benefit the Prince's Trust.

He added: "When I first set up in business 18 years ago I was given a grant of £1,000 by the Prince's Trust. I met Prince Charles and told him that I was extremely grateful for the money and that I would repay it in person.

"The organisation has been in touch with me about The Business Discount Club and I am hoping that it may be possible for me to meet with the Prince some time in the future and make good on my promise."