BUSINESSES in Blacon will be brought together in one handy directory.

When finished, it is hoped the list will stimulate business and encourage employers to recruit locally.

Volunteer Gavin Bowden, of the Enterprise Coaching Project, helps promote businesses in the Blacon area.

Gavin is a student at the University of Chester studying psychology and criminology but has chosen to try to stimulate the local economy.

He said: “We are volunteer workers and paid staff who are enterprise coaches.

“There will be an online directory and leaflets. We’re trying to encourage people in the Blacon area to employ people in the Blacon area.

“The last census, in 2000, said there were 600 people in Blacon that were self-employed.

“We’ve only got 163, so there could be hundreds nobody is hearing about.”

The directory will be produced in print and posted on websites including the Blacon Community Trust website and social networking site Facebook.

Entry into the Blacon Business directory is free. To be included, get in touch with Gavin Bowden on 01244 379 021 or email gavin@blacon.org.uk.