AN EAST Lancashire business is expanding further into lucrative Asian markets – thanks to the Lancashire Telegraph’s We’re Backing Business campaign.

Rossendale-based Stewardship Solutions used our campaign to access free, impartial and invaluable advice from experts at Business Link North West.

The company, run by Dr Chris Eacott, helps firms in the chemical industry comply with health and safety training and complex EU law.

Now, after surviving through the worst of the recession, Dr Eacott has managed to reap further rewards in buoyant Asian markets.

We’re Backing Business was set up earlier this year to give struggling East Lancashire companies the chance to fight back against the worst of the economic downturn.

Dr Eacott, who runs Stewardship Solutions from Shawclough Road, Waterfoot, contacted Business Link and was put in touch with financial and professional services adviser Steve Pytlak.

After visiting the business, Mr Pytlak advised Dr Eacott to visit a UK Trade and Investment seminar in Manchester to find out more about opportunities in South East Asia.

Dr Eacott said: “It was very interesting to hear what those representatives had to say and I came away with potential leads that I am still following up.

“China is a target market for us and while it was one that I was already working in, it was very useful to learn how I could exploit it further.”

Meanwhile, he has also strengthened links with EU markets, thanks to the Enterprise Europe Network.

Dr Eacott added: “Having the support of Business Link is very encouraging.

“It gives you the opportunity to step back and look at the business with a fresh perspective and having someone on hand to give guidance and offer an impartial third party opinion is extremely useful.”

For help and advice from Business Link, call 0845 0066888 or visit the website www.businesslink.gov.uk/northwest.