South Gloucestershire Council have been recognised for helping small businesses in their area at a ceremony.

At the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) ‘Local Authority’ Small Business Awards covering Gloucestershire and West of England, on November 30 the council won the Best Small Business Friendly Support Programme award.

It came before the council hosted their eighth Annual Business Breakfast Forum at the Bristol and Bath Science Park on Thursdsay, December 6, which focussed on providing advice and support for small to medium enterprises (SMEs).

This also coincided with the introduction of entrepreneurial wellbeing workshops for SME's to learn the effects that stress can have in the workplace.

Councillor Toby Savage, Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Schools, Skills and Employment, opened the forum and said: “It was fantastic to hear of our success at the FSB awards and then welcome and meet representatives from different businesses and organisations who all contribute so much towards supporting South Gloucestershire’s vibrant economy."

“These SMEs make a big difference to our residents. We are committed to supporting small businesses in a number of ways, so that communities can benefit from vibrant high streets and centres, as well as more job opportunities and a prosperous economy.”