HAVING created his own printing business from scratch nearly 20 years ago, Welwyn Hatfield MP Grant Shapps knows just how difficult it is to succeed – especially in tough economic times like we are in now. Luckily, an organisation exists in his

HAVING created his own printing business from scratch nearly 20 years ago, Welwyn Hatfield MP Grant Shapps knows just how difficult it is to succeed - especially in tough economic times like we are in now.

Luckily, an organisation exists in his constituency which is helping local businesses to start-up and expand.

And Mr Shapps dropped in on Business Link, based in Comet Square, Hatfield, to find out more about the hard work it does.

He was given a guided tour by partnership director Richard Hardiman, and introduced to the staff members who are helping businessmen and women across Times Territory to make it.

Mr Hardiman said he was delighted to welcome the MP to their offices.

He said: "With Business Link having worked with over 1,500 businesses in his constituency last year I am especially pleased he recognises the value we add to those whom we have supported on his patch."

Mr Shapps said: "In these tough economic times it's absolutely vital for small businesses to expand. Business Link tell me they have experienced a big increase in enquiries since the downturn with more people than ever considering going into business for themselves.

"I know from first hand

experience that Business Link can provide crucial expertise and

assistance."

Mr Shapps founded PrintHouse Corporation in 1990, when he was 21, using the same type of loan guarantee scheme Business Link offers to its customers now.

And it was this experience that had proved invaluable to his

political career some two decades on, he said.

"Being in business taught me a great deal about how to manage people and run an organisation effectively - experience that has served me very well since I became Welwyn Hatfield MP in 2005.