BUSINESS-owners in the two counties are being offered free expert advice to help their company thrive.

The Chamber of Commerce and Business Link, Herefordshire and Worcestershire is offering the service as part of its Best Business Practice (BBP) programme, and means entrepreneurs can talk to a qualified business adviser free of charge.

It involves a free, in-depth evaluation by the adviser who will then, in consultation with the company, create an action plan identifying key areas for improvement and potential sources of help.

"Best practice can help all aspects of your business including general management and operations, sales and marketing, technology and innovation, people and communications," said Rachel Rice, consultancy services manager at the Chamber of Commerce and Business Link, Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

"The programme will support your company to become more efficient, competitive and profitable by measuring how well your business is performing, seeing where you need to improve, doing something about it and learning how others have done it.

"But places are limited, so don't delay."

The free service is available to companies with between 10 and 250 employees but firms with as few as five employees will also be considered for the scheme.

Anyone who is interested should call Rachel Rice on 0845 450 8675.