Keighley's would-be entrepreneurs are being offered the free advice they might need to convince them to take the first steps into business.

Research shows that at some point in their working lives more than 50 per cent of people consider setting up their own business.

But the fact that relatively few of them go ahead is thought to be the result of a lack of help and advice available.

So Bradford & District Training & Enterprise Council (TEC), which covers the Keighley area, is launching a new 'Freestyle' initiative to offer free professional advice.

Freestyle offers adults throughout the district experienced management support in the crucial early stages of establishing a new enterprise.

The package includes confidential talks with a business adviser, market research assistance, help in sourcing finance and putting together a business plan, plus on-going guidance and mentoring during the first few months.

TEC enterprise manager Denise Hutchinson says: "This is an exciting new initiative, which I'm sure will be of great benefit to many local people currently thinking of setting up their own business."

Further information is available from Denise on 01274 751373.

She says: "People thinking of setting up in business have nothing to lose and everything to gain. It could prove to be the most exciting and positive career decision they have ever made."

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