BUSINESS owners in Lancashire should not be tempted into selling up too early, accountants have warned.

A recent surge in the number of businesses sold in the North West has prompted calls for owners to be cautious.

"They should resist the temptation to jump on the bandwagon and sell to the first bidder," said Deloitte & Touche corporate finance head Maghsoud Einollahi.

"There are many considerations to weigh up before making such a critical decision."

He said owners should consider whether to sell at all and what they will do once they have.

"Each owner and business have their own set of circumstances to take into account.

"And they should seek professional advice from the outset."

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