Taunton tops SW enterprise league

Tuesday, 03 August 2010 14:36

Now in its sixth year, the nationwide competition run by Enterprise UK rewards cities, villages, towns and neighbourhoods that have tackled the economic downturn head on and are successfully creating jobs, boosting local business and nurturing entrepreneurial talent as the UK emerges from recession.

Taunton was recognised for its success in encouraging budding and fledgling entrepreneurs, particularly through the Business Initiative for Schools, which both develops business awareness and encourages the development of business ideas amongst 14-18 years old, via Dragons’ Den style activities.

Cllr Norman Cavill, who holds the economic development portfolio at Taunton Deane Borough Council, congratulated all who had made the win possible, particularly Stephanie Payne, the Council’s economic development lead officer, Lee Porter, business and enterprise teacher at Bishop Fox’s School, Taunton , and Peter Heath, Director of Business Initiative for Schools.

“Winning the regional heat of the Enterprising Britain competition is a fantastic achievement and we are delighted to have been recognised for our work in bringing change to the area, creating jobs and transforming the community. Our initiative doesn’t stop here though – we will continue to champion enterprise and look forward to the national finals of the competition,” said Stephanie.

Cllr Cavill added: “This is a great achievement. I congratulate all involved, especially the Economic Development team for their commitment to improve the economic fortunes of the Borough.”

During August Taunton will go up against the other 11 regional finalists from around the UK for the Enterprising Britain 2010 national title. The overall winner will then go on to represent the UK at the European Enterprise Awards next year.

Andrew Youl of the South West Regional Development Agency said: “The success of Taunton demonstrates what can be achieved if people work together to improve the social and economic prospects of their community. We are confident that their great example will encourage more entrepreneurial behaviour in the region that will continue to benefit generations to come.”

Ian Franklin, Project Director of Project Taunton, said: "This is great news for Taunton ! As part of the regeneration, Project Taunton works closely with businesses and schools and we've been particularly impressed by the enthusiasm and insight of pupils who've been taken part in our Young Taunton programme - they are a credit to Taunton and vital to our future. Congratulations to all involved and best of luck in the finals."

For more information about the 2010 Enterprising Britain competition go to www.enterpriseuk.org/enterprisingbritain.

Additional information

- Cllr Norman Cavill, Executive Councillor for Economic Development, and the Arts 01823 412 663

- Peter Heath, Business in Schools 07841 795333 peter.heath@bizforschools.biz

- Andy Youl, SWRDA on 0117 933 0226 andy.youl@southwestrda.org.uk

- Debbie Rundle, Public & Media Relations Officer 01823 356407 d.rundle@tauntondeane.gov.uk

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