Test Valley Borough Council : Local trader wins handy Business Incentive Grant

Test Valley Borough Council has awarded a Business Incentive Grant to Those Handy People, a new local business set up by Martin Hopper.

Martin started the business after leaving a career in the banking industry as he wanted to offer his skills as a handy man. His services include painting, basic plumbing and guttering among many. Martin hopes to expand into the private letting market and has had a positive reaction from promoting the business online.

Martin said: 'I would like to thank the Council for awarding Those Handy People with a Business Incentive Grant. It has been exciting to turn my hobby and passion for DIY into a business and I appreciate the support. The research I have done on social media and with friends shows that there is an opportunity for a local tradesman business to flourish.' If you would like to contact Martin or request a service, visit www.thosehandypeople.co.uk

Andover Alamein ward member, Councillor Tracey Preston, visited Martin to present the cheque. She said: 'I am really pleased to present Martin with this grant. Starting a business can be a challenging but rewarding endeavour and I wish him all the best in his success. Supporting the skills and services of our local people is exactly what Test Valley Borough Council aims to do with these grants.'

The Council's Business Incentive Grants are available to local entrepreneurs looking for help with setting up their own business in Test Valley. For more information about the Council's Business Incentive Grants, click here