THREE Somerset councils are working together to offer another year of support for local businesses in 2017.

West Somerset, Taunton Deane and Sedgemoor Councils have joined forces to fund a year-long programme of events, which combines digital support with help and advice on business basics.

Workshops start with ‘Setting Up and Running Your Business Online’ at The Beach Hotel, Minehead, on Wednesday, January 18, from 10.30am to 1pm.

‘How to Keep Your Business Safe Online’ is in Berrow Village Hall from 1.30pm to 4pm on January 25, and the final workshop is ‘How to Apply for Business Funding’ from 1.30pm to 4pm on January 31 at Cotleigh Brewery, Wiveliscombe.

The Get Business, Get Digital programme builds on support offered since 2015 – this year, free workshops are on offer for people living and working in the three council areas.

Cllr Karen Mills, West Somerset Council’s lead member for economic development, said: “This is a practical programme which covers topics which are highly relevant for today’s changing business environment.

“The programme is about helping businesses stay ahead of the game through focusing on how knowledge learned can be implemented within the business.”

To book a space at any of the workshops go to www.getbusinessgetdigital.co.uk and click on “book a free workshop”.

Further information about the Get Business Get Digital programme, which is being delivered by business support agency Cosmic, is also available from the site and free advisory sessions can also be booked.

Anyone unable to book online may email [email protected].