Data from 2011 has shown that Selby recorded the second biggest increase of small business set-ups in Yorkshire with an 11.2 per cent increase in new businesses in 2011 than 2010.

York was third with 9.9 per cent, or 1,661 new businesses being created in 2011, from 2010’s 1,511.

Following the announcement, Simon Williams, North Yorkshire regional chairman for Federation of Small Businesses, said:

“Setting up and running a business can be a daunting prospect, and it is a lot of hard work. But it is also one of the most rewarding things that you can do and can be one of the most positive changes someone can make for themselves and the community they live in. We are delighted that so many in York are taking the step.”

Nigel Adams, as a businessman and founder of a small business was delighted at the news, following a recent debate in the Commons on self-employment attended by Richard Branson (pictured);

"In these difficult economic times, it is great to hear that wealth creation and the entrepreneurial spirit still continue to thrive.  In the Selby District we have seen many examples of small business creation, cemented by the support that is offered by the excellent local business accelerators programme, which was set up by the Newspaper Society and backed by the Prime Minister and the Selby Times.  Under this scheme, I shall be providing mentoring to a local Selby business called LRB Trophies run by the Butler family. The company sets a great examples and I look forward to supporting them, and other new businesses in their endeavours."