A WINSFORD photocopier supplier has been chosen to take part in a now-axed government scheme aimed at growing businesses.

The Business Growth Service (BGS), ended operations last November following government cuts.

In his autumn statement and spending review, Chancellor George Osborne announced a 17 per cent spending cut for the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS).

Claymore Business Machines Ltd, based in Winsford Industrial Estate, were one of the last businesses in the country to take advantage of the scheme.

Michael Shiels, managing director of Claymore Business Machines, said: “We just managed to get on the scheme.

“We’ve been given a three to five year plan, and in that time we are aiming to increase business by 20 per cent a year, increases staffing levels and make all areas of the business more efficient.”

Claymore Business Machines started in Northwich before moving to New Road, Winsford in 1995.

The business moved to Winsford Industrial Estate last September.

Last month the business held an open day and invited the mayor of Winsford and Middlewich as the guests of honour.

“We had our partner representatives from KYOCERA Document Solutions at the event and the town mayors really made a difference by attending,” Mr Shiels said.

Cllr Ailsa Gaskill-Jones, mayor of Winsford, said: "Claymore Business Machines are a well-established local company and it is great to see them expanding into new premises onto Winsford Industrial Estate.

“This is excellent news for all concerned and I wish them all the very best for the future."