BUSINESS failures in the region rose last month according to figures issued today.

Accountants Deloitte & Touche recorded 28 company collapses, up from 18 in January.

"There is little doubt that these figures will renew speculation that the UK and local economies are entering downturn," said insolvency partner John Wilson.

"That is too simplistic a view, but they certainly give cause for concern and certain sectors of the economy such as manufactuiring are suffering."

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