A SERVICE providing help and advice for businesses in the south west is proving increasingly popular.

Business Link Berkshire and Wiltshire, which offers assistance to small and medium-sized businesses throughout the region, has announced an 80 per cent increase in the number of businesses seeking its help over the last 12 months.

Daphne Milner, from Business Link, said: "These findings show that Business Link is coming of age and maturing into the UK's primary source of impartial and dedicated advice for small and medium-sized businesses.

"Driving the way we interact and serve regional businesses is an unwavering commitment to offer real value and visibly influence a company's success."

Since 2002 the service's market penetration in the south west has also risen dramatically, reaching one in every four businesses.

Customer satisfaction levels show that 93 per cent of clients are happy with the service they received.

Ms Milner said: "We are focused on offering a holistic network of support to generate repeat business and greater in-depth relationships with customers at a sector level.

"This is only possible by dedicating time to listen to companies, by providing advice in a language they understand and by offering signposts to the best solutions.

"We will continue to streamline the way we operate to ensure that we can add even greater value to businesses, now and in the future."

For advice on all issues relating to running or setting up a business call Business Link on 0845 600 4141 or visit www.blbw.co.uk