Entrepreneurs in Breckland will be able access free support to help them take the first step in starting a business.

Breckland Council has teamed up with Norfolk and Waveney Enterprise Services (NWES) to provide business support activities in Attleborough, Dereham, Swaffham, Thetford and Watton.

The Enterprise Norfolk programme, which is funded by Norfolk County Council, will help people gain skills to start a successful business and receive ongoing advice and mentoring during the first year of trading.

Awareness events will begin in each of the market towns in the New Year and people will also be encouraged to attend drop-in business support surgeries in Dereham and Thetford to find out more.

Breckland Council's executive member for assets and strategic management, Mark Kiddle-Morris, said: 'At a time when support for small businesses is difficult to obtain, this is a very valuable initiative for Breckland residents to take advantage of.

'I would encourage anybody who has an idea and the enthusiasm to start a business to contact us so they can benefit from the specialist advice and knowledge that is on offer.'

To find out more about the Enterprise Norfolk programme contact NWES on 0845 6099991, or Dan Cox at Breckland Council on 01362 656235 or dan.cox@breckland.gov.uk