BUDDING entrepreneurs are being given a helping hand to pursue their dreams of becoming their own boss.

Later this month the North East Rural Growth Network is holding a free workshop to give people who are considering self employment an insight into how they go about it.

Delivered by East Durham Business Service, the workshop will demonstrate the practical side of being your own boss and the many elements which need to be considered.

The workshop, which will cover areas including business planning, financial guidance and marketing, is being held at The Old Brewery in Castle Eden on Thursday, January 29, from 1pm to 4pm.

Sarah Marshall, East Durham Business Service's Rural Enterprise Development Officer, said: "Many people at one time or another think about starting their own business but for most, that's as far as they get. They either decide it's not for them because of the risks which come with it, or don't know how to go about taking the necessary steps.

"This workshop is designed for people who are thinking about setting up their own business, who have an idea they think could work and want some guidance on how they turn that vision into a reality.

"It's a new year so what better time to think about launching a new business. Being your own boss can be so rewarding so if you think this could be for you and want to learn more about self employment, I would urge you register for the workshop. It's free so you have nothing to lose and you could come away armed with the knowledge you need to plan for setting up your own business."

The North East Rural Growth Network programme is jointly funded by DEFRA and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Commissioned by Northumberland County Council, it is being delivered by East Durham Business Service with the aim of creating a thriving entrepreneurial culture in rural areas of East Durham and Sedgefield by removing some of the barriers to business creation and growth which currently exist.

To book your place on the workshop, contact Sarah Marshall on 0191 5863366, 07800 916932.

or email sarah.marshall@edbs.co.uk.