West Dorset District Council has been recognised as offering a helping hand to small businesses.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has presented the council with an All Round Small Business Friendly Local Authority Award as a result of a number of ways it has helped smaller firms.

These include a mentoring service that allows small businesses to share expertise, support for the Dorchester BID (Business Improvement District), rate relief for small businesses and launching rural business clubs to offer support and advice.

FSB Wessex regional chairman Ken Moon said: “We are absolutely delighted to acknowledge the significant efforts made by West Dorset District Council in their positive approach.”

Councillor Mary Penfold, the councillor’s member champion for economic development, accepted the award on behalf of the council.

She said: “Small businesses form a large part of the economy in rural areas like West Dorset.”