LABOUR is celebrating its first birthday in charge of South Ribble Council with a present for the unemployed.

New grants of up to £3,000 are being offered to the jobless to help them start up in business.

Already new firms have been set up ranging from computer firms, market research companies and manufacturing businesses - with the council helping pay the rent in the first year. Council leader Tony Kelly said: "Although unemployment in South Ribble is not as high as many other areas, we are not complacent. There are many people with sound ideas for new businesses, but who need a bit of help to get started.

"Despite a tight budget, we've been able to find some cash for this scheme. It's an investment in the future."

New firms in South Ribble can qualify for grants for half the rent on commercial premises in the first 12 months, up to a maximum of £3,000. All types of businesses, except retail, can qualify.

The council hopes by encouraging small firms to set up, many will go on to create further jobs for local people once they are established. New firms can also get help in developing their business from South Ribble Business Ventures and their goods and services are promoted through the council's Business Directory.

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