THE number of local business start-ups in Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley has reached an all-time high, according to new figures.

Hyndburn Enterprise Trust and Ribble Valley Enterprise Agency have recorded more than 120 new ventures in the last year -- the most in any 12-month period.

And it looks like more good news, as both agencies say they expect the trend to continue with more new businesses on the horizon.

Their claims business is booming in Hyndburn and the Ribble Valley is backed up by figures from Lancashire County Council's economic development unit.

According to their figures the number of VAT registered businesses in the Ribble Valley has gone up by almost eight per cent in the last four years and up nine per cent in Hyndburn, well above the national average of 3.8 per cent.

This compares favourably with other areas of East Lancashire with only Burnley (8.6 per cent) managing a similar increase since 2000.

"These are encouraging times for entrepreneurs in the area," said Aileen Evans, chair of the Consortium of Enterprise Agencies in East Lancashire.

Ms Evans, who oversees the support in place for the area's entrepreneurs, said the new figures show a growing confidence and reflect well on the help available to those looking to set up their own businesses.

"The comprehensive package of funding, training and support, delivered in partnership with experienced business advisers, is giving individuals the confidence they need to break out on their own," she added.

"Once over, most new businesses were started by people that were not in full time employment who wanted to use the skills they had to launch a new venture, but now just as many are leaving stable jobs to have a go.

"This is a really positive sign and shows that support is available for those that want it."