A BEWDLEY woman unemployed for almost a year has em-barked on a new career path, setting up a business making the most of her love for and knowledge of dogs.

Beverley Grove has launched Grove Dog Walking, which offers services including a pet taxi service for elderly and sick clients unable to take their pets for veterinary treatment and pet sitting.

Having applied for many job vacancies without success, Ms Grove decided on a job that would enable her to balance her caring responsibilities with self-employment.

Supported by the Worcestershire County Enterprise programme, she was able to familiarise herself with the legal requirements of self-employment, market research and marketing.

She also received help with applying for a Wyre Forest business start-up grant and is awaiting the outcome of her application.

Since its launch less in December, 2011, the Worcestershire County Enterprise Programme has kickstarted more than 100 businesses and provided training for more than 800 people.

The programme, funded entirely by Worcestershire County Council and delivered by Balancing Business, has so far helped 35 businesses secure start-up grants.

The Worcestershire County Enterprise Programme offers advice on topics such as finding and applying for funding. There is also a programme of four workshops on aspects of running a business, including business introduction, marketing, selling skills and tax.

The programme is available to anyone living in Worcestershire who has a business idea.

The county council's enterprise employment and skills manager, Aamir Kayani, said: “Over 100 businesses have received help to get them off the ground, which has had a great positive impact on the county in the start-up of new business opportunities, development of skills and creation of jobs."

For more information or to sign up for workshops contact the Worcestershire County Enterprise Programme team on 0300 123 1440 or email info@business-central.co.uk