BUSINESSES in West Somerset are being supported by the council to help them develop their ideas.

West Somerset Council launched the scheme for small businesses and start-up enterprises last month, and during the three-week window for grant applications 17 firms put forward their ideas with ten of them approved.

Grants were awarded to businesses which could most clearly demonstrate how their proposals would help make a step change in the business that would ultimately raise profitability.

Applications were received from a wide range of small businesses throughout West Somerset.

Those which were successful included Lisette de Roche, of Priestlands Birch Products, based in Raddington, who said:

“As a start-up business the grant will help me purchase treatment and filtration equipment for the birch-based products I make.

“I’m also receiving support from Cornerstone Business Mentoring which is proving extremely helpful.

The most important motto I’ve learned is ‘never give up!’”

A spokesman for Williton-based Oak Funeral Services, said: “We’re using the grant to help convert a derelict area into a workshop to build and fit coffins.

“By converting the space we’ll be able to finish our own products locally rather than buying them in from elsewhere, potentially creating local employment and offering a more bespoke service.”

The business development grant has now closed for applications. Customer-focused businesses in Minehead or Alcombe can still apply for a maximum of £300 in a separate scheme – for details, see www.westsomersetonline. gov.uk/mineheadresiliencegrant