NORTH-EAST small businesses are some of the most confident in the country about future growth, a survey has said.

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) revealed companies expect to grow in the next year.

A survey of 2,137 members registered plus 41 in the third quarter.

Bosses said it was the first time sentiment reached the level, with every sector recording a positive outlook for the next three months.

The North-East's score of plus 44 was one of the highest gains, though the South-East remains the most confident region, registering a score of 52.

John Allan, FSB national chairman, said: "We're seeing record-breaking confidence from our members, which suggests small firms will continue to spearhead the UK's recovery.

"We want policy makers to lock in this optimism and continue to back the self employed and small businesses.

"As we head in to party conference season, we'll be looking to all the political parties to spell out what they will do to encourage job creation, investment and reward entrepreneurs in the next Parliament."

The FSB added one third of businesses surveyed expect their turnover to grow in the next quarter and almost a fifth expect to see profits rise.