A NEW support network for business and industry in East Lancashire began operating today with the promise of millions of pounds of extra cash.

After months of near civil war in the business support world, with rival groups battling to win lucrative Government contracts, two new organisations have emerged to champion the small firms sector.

The Lancashire Learning and Skills Council is the biggest player, with an annual budget of £200million and 110 staff. A new East Lancashire Business Link has also been created, with a more modest budget of £2million and 15 full-time staff.

Together they take over the work of East Lancashire training and Enterprise Council, which closed down last week after more than 10 years, providing training and business support to both individuals and companies in East Lancashire.

East Lancashire had campaigned for its own Business Link and Learning and Skills Council because of its unique industrial make-up. It won the argument for a local Business Link, but the Government insisted there should be a county-wide Learning and Skills Council.

The national shake-up of post-16 training and business support will bring major changes to the delivery of Government support for companies in East Lancashire.

The Learning and Skills Council is now responsible for the planning and funding for further education colleges; school sixth forms; work-based training; adult and community learning; and education business links.

Business Link supports the development of small firms by providing advice and practical guidance on issues such as business planning, e-commerce, finance, exporting, tax issues, employment law and business regulation.