THREE of Dorset’s councils have been handed awards for their work to support small businesses.

They collected prizes at the Federation of Small Businesses’ (FSB) Small Business Friendly Awards.

Borough of Poole received the trophy for Most Innovative Small Business Friendly Programme in recognition of its support for the creation of Dorset Engineering and Manufacturing Cluster (EMC). It has developed into a successful network of more than 300 businesses in engineering and manufacturing, providing regular workshops and presentations.

Christchurch and East Dorset councils took a trophy for Best All Round Small Business Friendliness. The award recognised a positive approach to economic development and supporting local businesses through a grant programme and free workshops in business planning and finance.

Poole was also highly commended in the all-round award.

Cllr Mohan Iyengar, cabinet member for the economy at Borough of Poole, said: “Small businesses are critical to the vibrancy and overall health of Poole’s economy.

“The council has supported such businesses for many years and I’m glad this has been recognised through these awards.

“An interesting and somewhat challenging time lies ahead for many of our businesses, but we look forward to working with our entrepreneurs and making the most of the opportunities available.”

The Christchurch and East Dorset initiative is part of its Going for Growth local delivery plan.

Cllr Vicki Hallam, cabinet member for economy at Christchurch said of the award: “It’s a wonderful recognition of the work that Christchurch and East Dorset Councils are doing to support our business community.”

Cllr Mike Dyer, her opposite number at East Dorset, said: “Our economic development Team are there to help existing businesses and to find and encourage entrepreneurs of the future.”

Neil Eames, the FSB’s development manager for Wessex, said: “We hope the awards provide a platform for councils to share their successes in promoting and championing local economic development. It provides us with an excellent opportunity to promote the best examples of good work to all councils across the county, and further afield.

“This will go some way to help to drive the improvement of local government delivery and performance to support our local business community. The nominations also show that a great deal of effort is being made, and we look forward to working alongside the councils to keep this momentum going.”