ACCOUNTANTS Deloitte & Touche recorded 13 receivership and administration appointments in the region last month, the same as in April and three fewer than in March.

"Business conditions are certainly tightening but there are still no clear trends emerging. Good national figures mean talk of a recession is premature," said corporate recovery partner John Wilson.

"Local businesses shouldn't be complacent. Our advice to North West firms remains the same - proceed with caution."

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