British Business Parks guided Heritage Stitchcraft through the application process so that the company could acquire cash from the European Regional Development Fund.

Heritage Stitchcraft, which is based on The Levels Business Park, Redbrook Lane, Brereton, designs and produces embroidery kits which it sells all over the world.

The company’s graphics department is now branching out into a design and printing business so that it can produce business cards, flyers and brochures for other companies.

However, its existing base was too small for its needs and with no desire to relocate, the firm opted to purchase two derelict units close by its existing premises.

The units had been empty for some time and were in need of extensive refurbishment before they could be used.

To help secure the funding it needed to carry out the refurbishment, the company contacted British Business Parks, which manages the site, and asked for its help.

The regeneration organisation helped the company to identify funding streams and then guided it through the application process so that its bid would be successful.

Morag Pringle, British Business Park co-ordinator, said: “We were pleased to help the company with its scheme and are understandably delighted that its bid has been a success.

“The funding has enabled the company to improve the image and security of its premises and in doing so, secure existing jobs and possibly create more in the future.”

Susan Ryder, Heritage Stitchcraft managing director, was so impressed with the help she received that she has now joined the Image Business Partnerships steering group as representative of the Redbrook Lane and The Levels site.

The steering group helps to manage British Business Park interests in the Cannock Chase area.

She said: “We were very impressed and grateful for the help we received from British Business Parks.

“The funding we have been able to secure will help to retain jobs and if the expansion goes well, then hopefully new jobs may be created.

“I agreed to join the steering group because I was impressed with the work being carried out by British Business Parks and want to help other firms to succeed as we have.”

For further details please contact Morag Pringle, of British Business Parks, on 01543 460050.