SMALL firms in Cheshire and Warrington are benefiting from a national business mentoring scheme, figures show.

It has been announced the Government has achieved its target of 15,000 business mentors, which includes 221 mentors for Cheshire and Warrington.

The volunteer mentors have been recruited and trained as part of the £1.9m Government-funded Get Mentoring project. This has been delivered by the Small Firms Enterprise Development Initiative.

Chester MP Stephen Mosley said: “This is great news for small businesses, entrepreneurs and everyone thinking about setting up on their own.

“I am proud to support our local businesses, and I am 100% supportive of these Government measures to give more people the chance to establish or expand their businesses.

“Mentors offer businesses and entrepreneurs the support they can need to take the next step – helping them to start up, grow and create jobs.”

Business minister Michael Fallon said: “Small businesses are vital to our economy and we are determined to help them get on and succeed.

“I want to encourage people to come forward and take advantage of the mentoring network.”