A KIDDERMINSTER-based UKIP MEP has welcomed figures revealing the number of new businesses setting up in Worcestershire has gone up by almost 16 per cent.

James Carver said it was “great news” that Worcestershire was being recognised as one of the best locations for start-ups of all kinds.

In total, there were 7,804 new businesses formed in 2017, according to figures from the Inform Direct UK Review of Company Formations.

Mr Carver said: “That’s a whacking 1,200 more than in 2016, representing a 15.9 per cent rise.

“It shows the efforts of organisations such as the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership in promoting the county as a great place to live and work are paying off.

“The county has so much to offer – a central location with great transport links, a vibrant city and towns, beautiful villages and countryside, go-ahead enterprises, massive business opportunities and a host of amenities and attractions.

“These figures, coming on top of last week’s news that the county is to host the country’s most comprehensive industrial 5G Testbed trial in preparation for the next generation of mobile technology, demonstrate just what an entrepreneurial centre the county is becoming.”