GWENT steelworkers aiming to set themselves up in business are being given a helping hand by a local enterprise agency.

Newport & Gwent Enterprise has appointed a full-time person to link up with potential entrepreneurs from the steelworks to make sure they get all the help that is available as part of its response to the job losses at Corus' Llanwern works.

This has been made possible by a £75,000 contribution by business backers UK Steel Enterprise, part of the organisation's work in supporting new and existing businesses in Gwent.

David Russ, chief executive of the enterprise agency, said: "We are delighted to have appointed Craig Tamplin to this important job.

"He will be a dedicated link between us and the many people from Llanwern who will undoubtedly consider setting up their own business.

"If they come to us with a sound business idea, we can help them considerably. "There is a lot of help available, including aid with business plans, finding premises, dealing with taxation and ongoing advice and support."

As well as funding Mr Tamplin's new role, UK Steel Enterprise is offering two new programmes to help get fledgling businesses off the ground.

Surestart offers Corus employees help to get started, and the Fastforward scheme offers unsecured lending up to £35,000 and up to £150,000 on a secured or equity basis for expansion of existing companies.

UK Steel Enterprise regional executive David Hughes (pictured) said: "We have a substantial package of help available at our new Newport office in Devonshire House. "This is aimed both at Corus employees who want to launch their own businesses, and companies with growth potential to create jobs in the area.

"We are very pleased to be co-ordinating our services with those of Newport & Gwent Enterprise in order to help people make the most of what is available."

For more information contact Craig Tamplin on 01633 254041 and Mark Hislop at UK Steel Enterprise on 01633 224404.